Remote controller

Abstract

To provide a remote controller capable of suppressing optical variation in an operation button.SOLUTION: A remote controller comprises: a substrate provided with a switch; a case which stores the substrate and in which an operation button can be arranged on a front surface side; and a light source group containing a plurality of light sources arranged on a side closer to the back surface than the operation button and arranged at a circumference of the switch in a plan view. The operation button contains: a front plate part; and a projection that is opposite to the switch so as to be projected to the back surface side from the front plate part, and presses the switch with a force for pressing the operation button. The front plate part includes: a transmission part that transmits light emitted from the plurality of light sources; and a shielding part that is provided at the circumference of the transmission part in a front view and shields the light. Each of the plurality of light sources is arranged so that the transmission part is positioned within a range of a half value angle of each of the plurality of light sources.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 19

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] Aspects of the present invention generally relate to remote control devices. [Background technology]

[0002] For example, there is a remote control device for operating equipment such as bathroom equipment and toilet equipment. By pressing a button provided on the remote control device, the operation and functions of the equipment can be controlled. A light source such as a light emitting diode may be provided on the back side of the operation button of the remote control device. By illuminating the operation button with light from the light source, it is possible to notify the user that the operation button has been pressed and the operating status of the equipment. It is desirable to suppress unevenness in the light on the operation button. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2015-141779 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The present invention has been made based on the recognition of the above problem, and has an object to provide a remote control device capable of suppressing unevenness in light on operation buttons. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A first invention is a remote control device comprising: a board having a switch; a case for storing the board and enabling an operation button to be positioned on the front side; and a light source group including a plurality of light sources positioned on the rear side of the operation button and arranged around the switch in a planar view, wherein the operation button is biased away from the case, and includes a front panel portion and a protrusion protruding from the front panel portion to the rear side and facing the switch, and pressing the switch by a force pressing the operation button, the front panel portion having a transmissive portion that transmits light emitted from the plurality of light sources, and a shielding portion that is arranged around the transmissive portion in a front view and blocks the light, and each of the plurality of light sources is positioned so that the transmissive portion is located within the range of the half-value angle of each of the plurality of light sources.

[0006] According to this remote control device, the multiple light sources are arranged around the switch, and each light source is arranged so that the transmission portion is located within the range of the half-value angle of each light source. This makes it possible to suppress unevenness in light caused by the shadow of the protrusion of the operation button in the transmission portion. It is possible to suppress unevenness in light in the operation button.

[0007] A second invention is a remote control device according to the first invention, characterized in that, when viewed from the front, the centers of the multiple light sources are arranged at predetermined angles around the center of the switch.

[0008] According to this remote control device, the operation buttons can be illuminated more isotropically, and uneven lighting on the operation buttons can be further reduced.

[0009] A third invention is a remote control device according to the first or second invention, characterized in that a plurality of the switches are provided, a plurality of the light source groups are provided, the case is capable of arranging the operation buttons on the front side in a plurality of arrangement patterns, the numbers of the operation buttons in the plurality of arrangement patterns are different from one another, in each of the plurality of arrangement patterns, the operation button arrangement range in a front view of the case is an area of ​​the number of the operation buttons, the operation buttons are arranged one by one in each of the areas so that the protrusion is located in each of the areas in a front view, in each of the plurality of arrangement patterns, a portion of each of the plurality of switches faces the protrusion of the operation button, and the protrusion presses each of the portions of the plurality of switches due to the force pressing each of the operation buttons, and the plurality of light sources included in each of the plurality of light source groups are arranged around each of the plurality of switches.

[0010] According to this remote control device, the light sources included in each light source group are arranged around each of the switches, so that even if the positions of the protrusions of the operation buttons and the transparent portion change due to a change in the arrangement pattern of the operation buttons, it is possible to suppress unevenness in light caused by the shadows of the protrusions of the operation buttons in the transparent portion.

[0011] A fourth invention is a remote control device according to the third invention, characterized in that the multiple switches include a first switch and a second switch arranged next to the first switch, the multiple light source groups include a first light source group and a second light source group, the multiple light sources included in the first light source group are arranged around the first switch, the multiple light sources included in the second light source group are arranged around the second switch, and some of the multiple light sources included in the second light source group are common to some of the multiple light sources included in the first light source group.

[0012] According to this remote control device, by sharing some of the light sources included in the second light source group with some of the light sources included in the first light source group, even if the distance between the first switch and the second switch is short, light sources can be arranged around each of the first switch and the second switch. Therefore, even if the distance between the first switch and the second switch is short, unevenness in the light on the operation button can be suppressed. Effect of the Invention

[0013] According to an aspect of the present invention, a remote control device capable of suppressing unevenness in light on operation buttons is provided. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a remote control device according to an embodiment. [Diagram 2] 2(a) to 2(c) are plan views illustrating a remote control device according to an embodiment. [Diagram 3] 3(a) and 3(b) are plan views illustrating the remote control device according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a plan view illustrating the inside of the remote control device according to the embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a part of the remote control device according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a part of the remote control device according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a part of the remote control device according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a plan view illustrating the inside of the remote control device according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a plan view illustrating the inside of the remote control device according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a plan view illustrating the inside of the remote control device according to the embodiment. [Figure 11]FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating a part of a case of the remote control device according to the embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the remote control device according to the embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a plan view illustrating a plurality of arrangement patterns. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a part of the remote control device according to the embodiment. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a plan view illustrating the inner member. [Figure 16] 16(a) to 16(c) are plan views illustrating the operation buttons. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a plan view illustrating a substrate of the remote control device according to the embodiment. [Figure 18] 18(a) to 18(c) are plan views illustrating a part of the remote control device according to the embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a part of the remote control device according to the embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a plan view illustrating a part of the substrate of the remote control device according to the embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a plan view illustrating a part of the substrate of the remote control device according to the embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a plan view illustrating a modified example of the remote control device according to the embodiment. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a plan view illustrating a modified example of the remote control device according to the embodiment. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is a plan view illustrating a modified example of the remote control device according to the embodiment. [Diagram 25] FIG. 25 is a plan view illustrating a modified example of the remote control device according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0015] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same components are designated by the same reference numerals and detailed description thereof will be omitted as appropriate.

[0016] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a remote control device according to an embodiment. A remote control device 100 according to the embodiment includes a case 10 and one or more operation buttons 20. In the example of FIG.

[0017] In the description of the embodiments, the direction from case 10 toward operation button 20 is referred to as the "front" direction, and the opposite direction is referred to as the "rear" direction. When looking at remote control device 100 from the front to the rear, the up, down, right, and left are referred to as the "up", "down", "right", and "left", respectively. In the description of the embodiments, the surface facing up, down, right, or left may be referred to as the "side surface".

[0018] The operation button 20 is disposed on the front side of the case 10. A switch 40 (see FIG. 7) that is pressed by the operation button 20 is built into the case 10. For example, the operation button 20 presses the switch 40 via an operation member 30 (see FIG. 7).

[0019] Each switch 40 built into the case 10 is a switch capable of detecting that each of the operation buttons 20 has been pressed. A user can perform an input operation on the switch by pressing the operation button. The switch 40 is, for example, a push switch such as a tact switch. However, the switch is not limited to this, and any configuration capable of detecting a user pressing an operation button can be used for the switch.

[0020] The remote control device 100 is a remote control that remotely controls a device (not shown). When a user performs an input operation by pressing the operation button 20, the input operation is detected by the switch 40. Then, a signal corresponding to the input operation is transmitted from the remote control device 100 to the device. The device is controlled in response to the signal. A known method is appropriately used for communication between the remote control device 100 (its switch) and the device to be operated. The communication between the remote control device 100 and the device to be controlled may be wireless or wired, or a combination of wireless and wired.

[0021] For example, the remote control device 100 is a remote control that operates plumbing equipment installed in a bathroom, a dressing room adjacent to the bathroom, a washroom, a kitchen, a toilet, or the like. The plumbing equipment is, for example, a water faucet device, a water heater (water boiler), or a sanitary washing device that washes human body parts. The remote control device 100 is, for example, a remote control that controls the water supply and stop of the plumbing equipment, the temperature of the water discharged from the plumbing equipment, and the like. The remote control device 100 is installed, for example, in a place where water may splash on it or where a user may touch it with wet hands. For example, the remote control device 100 is installed in a plumbing facility such as a bathroom, a dressing room, a washroom, a kitchen, or a toilet. The remote control device 100 is, for example, attached to a wall surface in a room where the plumbing equipment is installed. The remote control device 100 may be placed, for example, near a bathtub or faucet device in a bathroom, near a faucet device or a bowl that receives water from a faucet device in a dressing room, washroom, or toilet, or near a faucet device or kitchen sink in a kitchen.

[0022] The remote control device 100 may be a water-filling remote control that operates a water heater. In this case, the remote control device 100 is attached, for example, to a wall in a bathroom. One of the operation buttons 20 is, for example, a water-filling button. When a user presses the water-filling button, the switch 40 provided behind the water-filling button is pressed by the water-filling button, and the pressing of the water-filling button is detected. Then, for example, a signal is transmitted from the remote control device 100 to the water heater, and the water heater supplies hot water to the bathtub in response to the signal.

[0023] Another one of the operation buttons 20 may be, for example, an increase hot water amount button. When the user presses the increase hot water amount button, a switch provided behind the increase hot water amount button is pressed by the increase hot water amount button, and the pressing of the increase hot water amount button is detected. Then, for example, a signal is transmitted from the remote control device 100 to the water heater, and the set value of the amount of hot water in the bathtub is increased. Similarly, yet another one of the operation buttons 20 may be, for example, a decrease hot water amount button. When the user presses the decrease hot water amount button, a switch provided behind the decrease hot water amount button is pressed by the decrease hot water amount button, and the pressing of the decrease hot water amount button is detected. Then, for example, a signal is transmitted from the remote control device 100 to the water heater, and the set value of the amount of hot water in the bathtub is decreased.

[0024] The above-mentioned functions operated by the operation button 20 are just an example, and in the embodiment, the operation button 20 may be capable of operating any function of the device. In the embodiment, the remote control device 100 does not necessarily have to be a remote control for a plumbing device such as a water filling remote control, and may be a remote control for operating any device.

[0025] The case 10 and the operation button 20 are each made of a material such as resin, for example. For example, a synthetic resin such as plastic can be used.

[0026] 2(a) to 2(c), 3(a) and 3(b) are plan views illustrating the remote control device according to the embodiment. In the remote control device 100 according to the embodiment, one or more operation buttons 20 can be attached to the front side of the case 10 in a number of arrangement patterns.

[0027] 2(a), an operation button arrangement range R is set on the case 10 in which the operation buttons 20 are arranged when viewed from the front. In this example, the operation button arrangement range R is a substantially rectangular range on the right side of the remote control device 100 when viewed from the front. In this example, the vertical width of the operation button arrangement range R is the same as the vertical width of the remote control device 100. The operation button arrangement range R is a predetermined range common to a plurality of arrangement patterns.

[0028] The operation buttons 20 can be arranged in an operation button arrangement range R on the front side of the case 10 in, for example, N arrangement patterns (1st to Nth arrangement patterns), where N is an integer equal to or greater than 2. In the nth arrangement pattern (n is an integer from 1 to N), the nth number of operation buttons 20 are attached in the operation button arrangement range R. That is, in each of the 1st to Nth arrangement patterns, the 1st to Nth numbers of operation buttons 20 are arranged, respectively.

[0029] In this example, N is 5. That is, as shown in Figures 2(a) to 2(c), 3(a) and 3(b), the operation buttons 20 can be attached to the front side of the case 10 in five different arrangement patterns.

[0030] FIG. 2(a) shows a case where a first number (two in this example) of operation buttons 20 (20a, 20b) are arranged in a first arrangement pattern P1. FIG. 2(b) shows a case where a second number (three in this example) of operation buttons 20 (20c to 20e) are arranged in a second arrangement pattern P2. FIG. 2(c) shows a case where a third number (four in this example) of operation buttons 20 (20f to 20i) are arranged in a third arrangement pattern P3. FIG. 3(a) shows a fourth number (five in this example) of operation buttons 20 (20j to 20n) arranged in a fourth arrangement pattern P4. FIG. 3(b) shows a case where a fifth number (six in this example) of operation buttons 20 (20o to 20t) are arranged in a fifth arrangement pattern P5.

[0031] In the multiple arrangement patterns, the number of one or more operation buttons 20 arranged is different from one another. That is, the first number to the Nth number are different from one another. As described above, in the examples of Figs. 2 and 3, the first number to the fifth number are 2 to 6. In this manner, the first number to the Nth number may be consecutive integers. However, the first number to the Nth number may include discontinuous integers. In addition, the first number is not limited to 2, and can be, for example, 1. In addition, the arrangement patterns are not limited to 5, and N can be any integer equal to or greater than 2.

[0032] In each of the multiple arrangement patterns, the operation button arrangement range R is one or more regions r, the number of which is one or more operation buttons 20. For example, in the nth arrangement pattern, the operation button arrangement range R is the nth number of regions r. One operation button 20 is arranged in each region r.

[0033] More specifically, in the first arrangement pattern P1 in Fig. 2(a), the operation button arrangement range R is divided into two areas r (ra, rb). The operation buttons 20a, 20b are arranged in each of the areas ra, rb. The operation buttons 20 are arranged in two rows in the vertical direction. In the second arrangement pattern P2 of Fig. 2(b), the operation button arrangement range R is divided into three regions r (rc to re). The operation buttons 20c to 20e are arranged in each of the regions rc to re. The operation buttons 20 are arranged in two rows in the vertical direction and one and two columns in the horizontal direction. In the third arrangement pattern P3 of Fig. 2(c), the operation button arrangement range R is divided into four regions r (rf to ri). The operation buttons 20f to 20i are arranged in each of the regions rf to ri. The operation buttons 20 are arranged in two rows in the vertical direction and two columns in the horizontal direction. In the fourth arrangement pattern P4 in Fig. 3(a), the operation button arrangement range R is divided into five regions r (rj to rn). The operation buttons 20j to 20n are arranged in each of the regions rj to rn. The operation buttons 20 are arranged in two rows in the vertical direction and two and three columns in the horizontal direction. In the fifth arrangement pattern P5 in Fig. 3(b), the operation button arrangement range R is divided into six regions r (ro to rt). The operation buttons 20o to 20t are arranged in each of the regions ro to rt. The operation buttons 20 are arranged in two rows in the vertical direction and three columns in the horizontal direction.

[0034] In this manner, when a plurality of operation buttons 20 are arranged, the plurality of operation buttons 20 are aligned in at least one of a first direction (eg, left-right direction) and a second direction (eg, up-down direction).

[0035] In a front view, the operation button 20 is arranged so that the center of the operation button 20 (a protrusion 24 described later) is located at the center (for example, the center) of each region r. For example, in a front view, the size of each operation button 20 is the same (approximately the same) as the size of the region r in which each operation button 20 is arranged. For example, one or more operation buttons 20 (one or more regions r) are arranged so as to cover the entire operation button arrangement range R except for small gaps between the operation buttons 20. In each arrangement pattern, the operation button arrangement range R does not need to include a region in which no operation button 20 is arranged. For example, the operation button arrangement range R does not need to include a region in which a dummy button that cannot be pressed is arranged. In addition, it has been described that the operation button 20 is arranged so that the center of the operation button 20 (a protrusion 24 described later) is located at the center of each region r in a front view, but this is not limited to the above. For example, even if a protrusion 24 described later is not arranged at the center of the operation button 20, it is sufficient that it is arranged within each region r.

[0036] For example, in each arrangement pattern, the widths of the operation buttons 20 aligned in the first direction (e.g., left-right direction) are the same. That is, for example, in the fifth arrangement pattern P5 in FIG. 3(b), the length in the first direction of the operation button 20r, the length in the first direction of the operation button 20s, and the length in the first direction of the operation button 20t are the same. Also, in the fifth arrangement pattern P5, the central positions (positions of protrusions described below) of the operation buttons 20 aligned in the first direction are aligned at equal intervals in the first direction. For example, the shapes of the operation buttons 20 aligned in the first direction may be the same.

[0037] For example, the widths of the operation buttons 20 arranged in the second direction (e.g., the up-down direction) may be the same or different. For example, in the fourth arrangement pattern P4 of FIG. 3(a), the length in the first direction of the operation button 20k is different from the length in the first direction of the operation button 20n. For example, in the fifth arrangement pattern P5 of FIG. 3(b), the length in the first direction of the operation button 20q is the same as the length in the first direction of the operation button 20t. For example, in a plurality of arrangement patterns, the lengths in the second direction of the operation buttons 20 may be the same. Note that the first direction may be the up-down direction, and the second direction may be the left-right direction.

[0038] FIG. 4 is a plan view illustrating the inside of the remote control device according to the embodiment. Fig. 4 illustrates the inside of the case 10 around the operation button arrangement range R. Fig. 4 illustrates a state in which the operation button 20 has been removed from the operation button arrangement range R. Note that an inner member 16, an operation member 30, and a waterproof member 47, which will be described later, are omitted from the illustration.

[0039] The case 10 houses a board 45. The board 45 is provided with a plurality of switches 40. The case 10 is provided with an opening 12 (openings 12a to 12f). The opening 12 is located in front of the plurality of switches 40. In other words, the case 10 does not cover the front of the switches 40.

[0040] The case 10 has an upper case 11. The board 45 is disposed behind the front surface of the upper case 11. In this example, the opening 12 is provided in the upper case 11.

[0041] The multiple switches 40 provided on the substrate 45 include one or multiple switch groups Gr. Each switch group Gr is composed of switches 40 arranged in a first direction (left-right direction). In this example, two switch groups Gr (Gr1, Gr2) are arranged above and below each other.

[0042] The multiple switches 40 included in each switch group Gr include multiple switches 40 (referred to as linked switches 41) arranged at equal intervals. That is, the distance between the centers of adjacent linked switches 41 is a constant distance d1. The multiple linked switches 41 include a first outermost switch 411, a second outermost switch 412, and a central switch 413. The first outermost switch 411 and the second outermost switch 412 are switches located at the ends in the first direction among the multiple linked switches 41. The central switch 413 is a switch located in the center in the first direction among the multiple switches 40 included in the switch group Gr.

[0043] Moreover, the multiple switches 40 included in each switch group Gr include a first proximity switch 421 and a second proximity switch 422. The first proximity switch 421 is the switch that is closest to the first outermost switch 411 in each switch group Gr. The second proximity switch 422 is the switch that is closest to the second outermost switch 412 in each switch group Gr.

[0044] 4, a distance d2 between the center of the first outermost switch 411 and the center of the first proximity switch 421 is shorter than half the distance d1. Similarly, a distance d3 between the center of the second outermost switch 412 and the center of the second proximity switch 422 is shorter than half the distance d1. The distance d3 may be the same as the distance d2.

[0045] The opening 12a is provided in a range surrounding the first outermost switch 411 and the first proximity switch 421 of the switch group Gr1 in a front view. The opening 12b is provided in an area surrounding the central switch 413 of the switch group Gr1 in a front view. The opening 12c is provided in a range surrounding the second outermost switch 412 and the second proximity switch 422 of the switch group Gr1 in a front view. The opening 12d is provided in a range surrounding the first outermost switch 411 and the first proximity switch 421 of the switch group Gr2 in a front view. The opening 12e is provided in an area surrounding the central switch 413 of the switch group Gr2 in a front view. The opening 12f is provided in a range surrounding the second outermost switch 412 and the second proximity switch 422 of the switch group Gr2 in a front view.

[0046] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a part of the remote control device according to the embodiment. FIG. 5 shows a cross section taken along line A1-A2 in FIG. 2(a). For example, the operation button 20 has a front plate 21, a side wall 22, and a protrusion 24. The front plate 21 is a portion for a user to press the operation button 20. The user can push the operation button 20 backward by pressing the front plate 21. The front plate 21 is a substantially rectangular plate in a front view. The side wall 22 extends backward from the outer edge of the front plate 21 in a front view. For example, the side wall 22 is provided so as to surround the front plate 21 in a front view. The side wall 22 may surround the front plate 21 continuously and uninterruptedly, or may be discontinuous. The protrusion 24 extends backward from the back side of the operation button 20. For example, the protrusion 24 is located in the center (e.g., the center) of the operation button 20 in a front view.

[0047] Case 10 has an upper case 11, a lower case 18, and an inner member 16 (inner case). The lower case 18 is located behind a board 45. A part of the upper case 11 is located in front of the board 45. The board 45 is stored between the upper case 11 and the lower case 18. The inner member 16 is located in front of the upper case 11, and is located between the operation button 20 and the upper case 11.

[0048] In each arrangement pattern of the operation buttons 20, some of the switches 40 provided on the substrate 45 face the protrusion 24 of one or more operation buttons 20. For example, in the first arrangement pattern P1 (FIG. 2(a)), as shown in FIG. 5, the switch 40 (center switch 413) faces the protrusion 24 of the operation button 20b. In other words, the switch 40 is arranged so as to overlap the protrusion 24 in the front-rear direction.

[0049] Remote control device 100 includes one or more operation members 30 (operation plates) and a waterproof member 47 (waterproof sheet). Operation member 30 has a pressing portion 31 that is pressed by protrusion 24 to press switch 40, and a support portion 32 that supports pressing portion 31.

[0050] In each arrangement pattern of the operation buttons 20, the pressing portion 31 of the operation member 30 is located between each protrusion 24 of one or more operation buttons 20 and each of some of the multiple switches 40. For example, as shown in Fig. 5, the pressing portion 31 of the operation member 30 is located between the central switch 413 and the protrusion 24 of the operation button 20b.

[0051] The waterproof member 47 is located between the operation member 30 and the operation button 20. The waterproof member 47 is also located between the upper case 11 and the operation button 20. The operation button 20 is biased so as to move away from the case 10. For example, the rear end side of the protrusion 24 of the operation button 20 is biased forward by the elasticity of the switch 40, the operation member 30, and the waterproof member 47 (waterproof sheet).

[0052] The force of the user pressing each operation button 20 causes the protrusion 24 to press each of some of the switches 40 via each operation member 30. That is, when the user presses the operation button 20 backward to move the protrusion 24 backward, the waterproof member 47 and the pressing portion 31 of the operation member 30 are pushed backward by the protrusion 24. As a result, the pressing portion 31 abutting against the switch 40 presses the switch 40. For example, in the example of FIG. 5, the protrusion 24 of the operation button 20b can press the central switch 413 via the pressing portion 31 of the operation member 30. Note that in an embodiment in which the operation member 30 is provided, the switch 40 is indirectly pressed by the protrusion 24. However, the protrusion 24 that presses the switch 40 may directly press the switch 40.

[0053] In the first arrangement pattern P1, the first outermost switch 411, the first proximity switch 421, the second outermost switch 412 and the second proximity switch 422 do not face the protrusion 24 and are not pressed by the operation button 20.

[0054] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a part of the remote control device according to the embodiment. Fig. 6 shows a cross section taken along line A3-A4 in Fig. 2(c). For example, in the third arrangement pattern P3 (Fig. 2(c)), as shown in Fig. 6, the switch 40 (first proximity switch 421) faces the protrusion 24 of the operation button 20h. The pressing portion 31 of the operation member 30 is located between the first proximity switch 421 and the protrusion 24 of the operation button 20h. The protrusion 24 of the operation button 20h can press the first proximity switch 421 via the pressing portion 31 of the operation member 30.

[0055] The switch 40 (second proximity switch 422) faces the protrusion 24 of the operation button 20i. The pressing portion 31 of the operation member 30 is located between the second proximity switch 422 and the protrusion 24 of the operation button 20i. The protrusion 24 of the operation button 20i can press the second proximity switch 422 via the pressing portion 31 of the operation member 30.

[0056] In the third arrangement pattern P3, the first outermost switch 411, the second outermost switch 412, and the central switch 413 do not face the protrusion 24 and are not pressed by the operation button 20.

[0057] FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a part of the remote control device according to the embodiment. Fig. 7 shows a cross section taken along line A5-A6 in Fig. 3(b). For example, in the fifth arrangement pattern P5 (Fig. 3(b)), as shown in Fig. 7, the switch 40 (first outermost switch 411) faces the protrusion 24 of the operation button 20r. The pressing portion 31 of the operation member 30 is located between the first outermost switch 411 and the protrusion 24 of the operation button 20r. The protrusion 24 of the operation button 20r can press the first outermost switch 411 via the pressing portion 31 of the operation member 30.

[0058] The switch 40 (central switch 413) faces the protrusion 24 of the operation button 20s. The pressing portion 31 of the operation member 30 is located between the central switch 413 and the protrusion 24 of the operation button 20s. The protrusion 24 of the operation button 20s can press the central switch 413 via the pressing portion 31 of the operation member 30.

[0059] The switch 40 (second outermost switch 412) faces the protrusion 24 of the operation button 20t. The pressing portion 31 of the operation member 30 is located between the second outermost switch 412 and the protrusion 24 of the operation button 20t. The protrusion 24 of the operation button 20t can press the second outermost switch 412 via the pressing portion 31 of the operation member 30.

[0060] In the fifth arrangement pattern P5, the first proximity switch 421 and the second proximity switch 422 do not face the protrusion 24 and are not pressed by the operation button 20.

[0061] FIG. 8 is a plan view illustrating the inside of the remote control device according to the embodiment. Fig. 8 shows a state in which the operation buttons 20 and the waterproof member 47 are removed from the periphery of the operation button arrangement range R. Fig. 8 shows the arrangement of the operation members 30 in the first arrangement pattern P1, the second arrangement pattern P2, and the third arrangement pattern P3.

[0062] The pressing portion 31 of the operating member 30 is located in the center of the operating member 30 in a plan view. The support portion 32 that supports the pressing portion 31 is thinner than the pressing portion 31 and has elasticity. The support portion 32 can bend in the front-rear direction. Furthermore, the support portion 32 is curved in a front view. For example, the support portion 32 extends in a spiral shape. This makes the support portion 32 more likely to bend in the front-rear direction. With this configuration, the pressing portion 31 can move in the front-rear direction.

[0063] In the first arrangement pattern P1, the second arrangement pattern P2, and the third arrangement pattern P3, for example, a plurality of operating members 30 (30a to 30f) are provided. The operating members 30a to 30f are disposed in the openings 12a to 12f of the case 10, respectively.

[0064] The pressing portions 31 of the operating members 30a, 30b, 30c are located in front of the first proximity switch 421, the central switch 413, and the second proximity switch 422 of the switch group Gr1, respectively. The pressing portions 31 of the operating members 30d, 30e, 30f are located in front of the first proximity switch 421, the central switch 413, and the second proximity switch 422 of the switch group Gr2, respectively.

[0065] In the first arrangement pattern P1 (FIG. 2(a)), the protrusions 24 of the operation buttons 20a and 20b are located in front of the operation members 30b and 30e, respectively. This allows the operation buttons 20a and 20b to press the operation members 30b and 30e, respectively.

[0066] In the second arrangement pattern P2 (FIG. 2(b)), the protrusions 24 of the operation buttons 20c, 20d, and 20e are located in front of the operation members 30b, 30d, and 30f, respectively. This allows the protrusions 24 of the operation buttons 20c, 20d, and 20e to press the operation members 30b, 30d, and 30f, respectively.

[0067] In the third arrangement pattern P3 (FIG. 2(c)), the protrusions 24 of the operation buttons 20f, 20g, 20h, and 20i are located in front of the operation members 30a, 30c, 30d, and 30f, respectively. This allows the protrusions 24 of the operation buttons 20f, 20g, 20h, and 20i to press the operation members 30a, 30c, 30d, and 30f, respectively.

[0068] FIG. 9 is a plan view illustrating the inside of the remote control device according to the embodiment. Fig. 9 shows a state in which the operation buttons 20 and the waterproof member 47 are removed from the periphery of the operation button arrangement range R. Fig. 9 shows the arrangement of the operation members 30 in the fourth arrangement pattern P4.

[0069] In the fourth arrangement pattern P4, for example, a plurality of operating members 30 (30g to 30k) are provided. The operating members 30g, 30h, 30i, 30j, and 30k are arranged in the openings 12a, 12c, 12d, 12e, and 12f of the case 10, respectively.

[0070] The pressing portions 31 of the operating members 30g and 30h are located in front of the first proximity switch 421 and the second proximity switch 422 of the switch group Gr1, respectively. The pressing portions 31 of the operating members 30i, 30j, and 30k are located in front of the first outermost switch 411, the central switch 413, and the second outermost switch 412 of the switch group Gr2, respectively.

[0071] In the fourth arrangement pattern P4 (FIG. 3(a)), the protrusions 24 of the operation buttons 20j, 20k, 20l, 20m, and 20n are located in front of the operation members 30g, 30h, 30i, 30j, and 30k, respectively. This allows the protrusions 24 of the operation buttons 20j, 20k, 20l, 20m, and 20n to press the operation members 30g, 30h, 30i, 30j, and 30k, respectively.

[0072] FIG. 10 is a plan view illustrating the inside of the remote control device according to the embodiment. Fig. 10 shows a state in which the operation buttons 20 and the waterproof member 47 are removed from the periphery of the operation button arrangement range R. Fig. 10 shows the arrangement of the operation members 30 in the fifth arrangement pattern P5.

[0073] In the fifth arrangement pattern P5, for example, a plurality of operating members 30 (30l to 30q) are provided. The operating members 30l to 30q are disposed in the openings 12a to 12f of the case 10, respectively.

[0074] The pressing portions 31 of the operating members 30l, 30m, 30n are located in front of the first outermost switch 411, the central switch 413, and the second outermost switch 412 of the switch group Gr1, respectively. The pressing portions 31 of the operating members 30o, 30p, 30q are located in front of the first outermost switch 411, the central switch 413, and the second outermost switch 412 of the switch group Gr2, respectively.

[0075] In the fifth arrangement pattern P5 (FIG. 3(b)), the protrusions 24 of the operation buttons 20o to 20t are located in front of the operation members 30l to 30q, respectively. This allows the protrusions 24 of the operation buttons 20o to 20t to press the operation members 30l to 30q, respectively.

[0076] FIG. 11 is a perspective view illustrating a part of a case of the remote control device according to the embodiment. Fig. 11 shows the upper case 11 of the case 10. The case 10 has attachment portions 17 to which one or more operating members 30 can be attached. An operating member 30 can be attached to each of the multiple attachment portions 17. As shown in Fig. 11, in this example, the attachment portions 17 are provided on the upper case 11. Each attachment portion 17 is provided on an inner side surface that forms each opening 12 of the upper case 11.

[0077] FIG. 12 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the remote control device according to the embodiment. FIG. 12 shows a cross section taken along line A7-A8 in FIG. 2(a). In this example, the attachment portion 17 includes a protrusion 171 that protrudes toward the inside of the opening 12 having an inner surface on which the attachment portion 17 is provided. The operating member 30 has an engagement portion 33 (e.g., a claw) that is provided at one end (e.g., an upper end) and the other end (e.g., a lower end) of the operating member 30 and engages with the protrusion 171. The engagement portion 33 at one end of the operating member 30 engages with the protrusion 171, and the engagement portion 33 at the other end of the operating member 30 engages with another protrusion 171. The protrusion 171 and the engagement portion 33 are, for example, a snap fit. The engagement portion 33 engages with the protrusion 171, whereby the operating member 30 is attached to the upper case 11.

[0078] 11, the attachment portion 17 includes a recess 172 adjacent to a protrusion 171. One end of the operating member 30 is fitted into the recess 172, and the other end of the operating member 30 is arranged to fit into another recess 172.

[0079] In this manner, one operating member 30 is attached to a pair of mounting portions 17. In each arrangement pattern, each operating member 30 is attached to the mounting portion 17 corresponding to the position of each operating member 30 described with reference to Figs. 8 to 10.

[0080] As described above, in the embodiment, the same case 10 and the same board 45 are used in a plurality of arrangement patterns of the operation buttons 20. Furthermore, the shape of the operation members 30 is common to the plurality of arrangement patterns. When changing the number of operation buttons 20, a required number of operation buttons 20 may be set on the case 10 for the common case 10 and board 45. In this case, the operation members 30 prepared separately from the case 10 and the operation buttons 20 may be arranged according to the positions of the protrusions 24 of the operation buttons 20.

[0081] In recent years, the number of operation buttons has become more varied as the number of products and functions operated by remote control devices increases. Meanwhile, the operation buttons are fixed to, for example, the case of the remote control device. In order to accommodate the change in the number of operation buttons, a method of preparing cases with different shapes for each number of operation buttons can be considered. However, in this case, many types of cases must be manufactured, which may increase manufacturing costs. Alternatively, a case with the maximum number of buttons could be prepared, and when the number of buttons is reduced, unnecessary operation buttons could be changed to dummy buttons that cannot be pressed. However, having too many dummy buttons can lead to poor design.

[0082] In contrast, according to the embodiment, the operation buttons 20 can be attached to the case 10 in a plurality of arrangement patterns, so that the same case 10 can be used even if the number of operation buttons 20 changes. This makes it possible to significantly reduce manufacturing costs compared to manufacturing a case 10 for each number of operation buttons 20. Also, for example, it is not necessary to provide a dummy button in the operation button arrangement range R, and it is possible to provide a remote control device with excellent design.

[0083] When the operation buttons 20 are attached to the case 10 in a plurality of arrangement patterns, the position of the protrusion 24 of the operation button 20 (the center position of the operation button 20) changes depending on the arrangement pattern of the operation button 20. In response to this, the switch 40 is provided so as to face the protrusion 24 of the operation button 20 in each arrangement pattern. As a result, in each arrangement pattern of the operation button 20, the protrusion 24 of each operation button 20 can press the switch 40 via the operation member 30.

[0084] FIG. 13 is a plan view illustrating a plurality of arrangement patterns. FIG. 13 shows a first arrangement pattern P1 in which one operation button 20 is arranged horizontally, a third arrangement pattern P3 in which two operation buttons 20 are arranged horizontally, and a fifth arrangement pattern P5 in which three operation buttons 20 are arranged horizontally, lined up side by side.

[0085] In the first arrangement pattern P1, the horizontal positions of the protrusions 24 are position X1. In the third arrangement pattern P3, the horizontal positions of the protrusions 24 are position X31 and position X32. In the fifth arrangement pattern P5, the horizontal positions of the protrusions 24 are position X1, position X51, and position X52.

[0086] For example, position X31 of the third arrangement pattern P3 and position X51 of the fifth arrangement pattern P5 are close to each other. In this way, the positions of the protrusions 24 of the operation buttons 20 may be close to each other between the arrangement patterns of the operation buttons 20. In this case, the positions of the mechanisms for pressing the switches 40 may interfere with each other between the arrangement patterns. For this reason, it may be difficult to install the mechanisms for pressing the switches 40 in a manner that corresponds to a plurality of arrangement patterns. For example, interference is likely to occur in the outer switches 40.

[0087] In contrast, in the embodiment, an operation member 30 is provided as a separate body from the case 10. The case 10 is provided with an attachment portion 17 to which the operation member 30 can be attached. The attachment portion 17 allows the operation member 30 to be attached between the protrusion 24 of the operation button 20 and the switch 40 in each arrangement pattern. For example, a large opening 12 is provided in the case 10, and the operation member 30, which is separate from the case 10, can be arranged according to the number of rows of the operation button 20. Even if the positions of the protrusions 24 of the operation button 20 are close to each other between the arrangement patterns, the position of the operation member 30 can be shifted to arrange the operation member 30 at a position corresponding to each arrangement pattern.

[0088] For example, in one arrangement pattern, such as the third arrangement pattern P3 shown in FIG. 6, the first switch (e.g., the first proximity switch 421) faces the protrusion 24 of the first operation button (e.g., the operation button 20h). Between the first switch and the protrusion 24 of the first operation button, the pressing portion 31 of the first operation member (e.g., the operation member 30d) is arranged. In this arrangement pattern, the second switch (e.g., the first outermost switch 411) is located on the back side of the first operation button and does not face the protrusion 24 of the first operation button. The second switch does not face the protrusion of any of the operation buttons 20. The pressing portion 31 of the operation member 30 is not arranged between the second switch and the first button. The second switch is not pressed even if any of the operation buttons 20 is pressed.

[0089] On the other hand, in another arrangement pattern, such as the fifth arrangement pattern P5 shown in FIG. 7, the second switch (for example, the first outermost switch 411) faces the protrusion 24 of the second operation button (for example, the operation button 20r). Between the second switch and the protrusion 24 of the second operation button, the pressing portion of the second operation member (for example, the operation member 30o) is arranged. In this arrangement pattern, the first switch (for example, the first proximity switch 421) is located on the back side of the second operation button and does not face the protrusion 24 of the second operation button. The first switch does not face the protrusion of any of the operation buttons 20. The pressing portion 31 of the operation member 30 is not arranged between the first switch and the second button. The first switch is not pressed even if any of the operation buttons 20 is pressed.

[0090] For example, as shown in FIG. 8, in one arrangement pattern, a first operating member (e.g., operating member 30d) is arranged in a first opening (e.g., opening 12d) provided in the case. Also, as shown in FIG. 10, in another arrangement pattern, a second operating member (e.g., operating member 30o) is arranged in the first opening. That is, the first operating member and the second operating member are arranged at different positions within the same opening 12. The case is provided with a large opening 12 so that the first operating member and the second operating member can be arranged at different positions.

[0091] With these configurations, even if the number of operation buttons 20 or the positions of the protrusions 24 vary depending on the layout pattern, the switch 40 can be pressed by each operation button 20 in each layout pattern.

[0092] FIG. 14 is an exploded perspective view illustrating a part of the remote control device according to the embodiment. The waterproof member 47 covers the front of one or more operation members 30. The waterproof member 47 is disposed so as to block the opening 12 from the front. The waterproof member 47 is disposed between the inner member 16 and the upper case 11. Due to a force pressing the operation button 20, the protrusion 24 of the operation button 20 presses the switch 40 via the waterproof member 47 and the operation member 30.

[0093] The waterproof member 47 is, for example, a waterproof sheet such as an embossed sheet. For example, a material having waterproof properties such as synthetic material can be used for the waterproof member 47. The waterproof member 47 may be, for example, a soft sheet containing resin and having flexibility.

[0094] A portion 471 of the waterproof member 47 overlapping with the operation member 30 in the front-rear direction has a shape curved forward. In a plurality of arrangement patterns of the operation buttons 20, the waterproof member 47 does not have to be common.

[0095] Waterproof member 47 can prevent water from entering the back side of waterproof member 47. This allows remote control device 100 to be installed, for example, in a bathroom. For example, even if opening 12 of case 10 in which operation member 30 is arranged is large so as to accommodate a plurality of arrangement patterns, water can be prevented from entering from opening 12 to board 45.

[0096] The inner member 16 has a plurality of claws 161. The claws 161 extend rearward from the outer edge of the inner member 16 and engage with the upper case 11. In this way, the inner member 16 is attached to the upper case 11.

[0097] FIG. 15 is a plan view illustrating the inner member. The inner member 16 has a plurality of through holes 162 (162a to 162f) penetrating the inner member 16 in the front-rear direction. The inner member 16 has a generally rectangular frame shape surrounding the plurality of through holes 162 in a front-rear view. The through holes 162a to 162f are provided so as to overlap in the front-rear direction with the openings 12a to 12f (see FIG. 8) in which the operation members 30 are disposed, respectively. The protrusions 24 of each operation button 20 are disposed inside any one of the through holes 162a to 162f.

[0098] The inner member 16 has a plurality of claw portions 163 that protrude up and down or left and right from a plurality of side surfaces of the inner member 16. One or a plurality of operation buttons 20 are attached to some of the plurality of claw portions 163.

[0099] 16(a) to 16(c) are plan views illustrating the operation buttons. 16(a), 16(b), and 16(c) show the operation button 20b, the operation button 20h, and the operation button 20r, respectively. The side wall portion 22 of each operation button 20 is provided with an engagement portion 221 that protrudes inward of each operation button 20. For example, as shown in FIG.

[0100] Thus, in the embodiment, each operation button 20 is attached to the inner member 16. On the other hand, a method of providing a claw portion for attaching the operation button to a housing (upper case) that stores a board can also be considered. However, in this case, holes may be formed in the housing so that a die can be removed from the housing when molding the housing. When a large number of claw portions protruding from the housing are provided, it may be difficult to block the holes formed in the housing. In contrast, in the embodiment, since the operation button 20 is attached to the inner member 16, it is not necessary to provide a claw portion for attaching the operation button 20 to the upper case 11. Therefore, no hole is formed in the upper case 11 for forming the claw portion with a die. This can improve waterproofing. It is possible to prevent water from entering the board 45 in the upper case 11, and the remote control device 100 can be installed in a bathroom, for example.

[0101] For example, in one arrangement pattern, such as the third arrangement pattern P3 shown in FIG. 6, the protrusion 24 of the first button (for example, the operation button 20h) is arranged inside the first through hole (for example, the through hole 162d) of the inner member 16. In another arrangement pattern, such as the fifth arrangement pattern P5 shown in FIG. 7, the protrusion 24 of the second button (for example, the operation button 20r) is arranged inside the first through hole (for example, the through hole 162d) of the inner member 16. In other words, the protrusion 24 of the first button and the protrusion 24 of the second button are arranged inside the same through hole. In this way, a large through hole is provided so that the protrusion 24 of the first button and the protrusion 24 of the second button can be arranged at different positions.

[0102] FIG. 17 is a plan view illustrating a substrate of the remote control device according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 17, the remote control device 100 includes a plurality of light source groups L (light source groups La to Lj). Each light source group L includes a plurality of light sources 50. The light sources 50 are light-emitting units such as LEDs (light-emitting diodes). The light sources 50 are provided on a substrate 45 and are positioned behind the operation buttons 20. For example, in response to the switch 40 being pressed, a control circuit (not shown) receives a signal. The control circuit controls turning on and off the light sources 50 in response to the signal.

[0103] 17, the multiple light sources 50 included in each light source group L are arranged around each switch 40 in a plan view. For example, the light sources 50 included in the light source group Lc are arranged around the central switch 413 of the switch group Gr1. In this example, each light source group L is composed of four light sources 50. However, the number of light sources 50 included in one light source group L may be two, three, five or more.

[0104] Similarly, the multiple light sources 50 included in the light source groups La, Lb, Ld, and Le are respectively arranged around the first outermost switch 411, the first proximity switch 421, the second proximity switch 422, and the second outermost switch 412 of the switch group Gr1. Also, the multiple light sources 50 included in the light source groups Lf, Lg, Lh, Li, and Lj are respectively arranged around the first outermost switch 411, the first proximity switch 421, the central switch 413, the second proximity switch 422, and the second outermost switch 412 of the switch group Gr2.

[0105] 18(a) to 18(c) are plan views illustrating a part of the remote control device according to the embodiment. 18(a), 18(b), and 18(c) respectively show the second arrangement pattern P2, the third arrangement pattern P3, and the fifth arrangement pattern P5. In this example, in a front view, the front panel 21 of each operation button includes a transmission section 25 and a light-shielding section 26. The transmission section 25 is an area through which light emitted from the light source 50 on the rear side of the front panel 21 is transmitted to the front side of the front panel 21. The light-shielding section 26 is an area that blocks the light emitted from the light source 50 on the rear side of the front panel 21 and does not transmit the light to the front side of the front panel 21.

[0106] The range in which the transmissive portion 25 is provided includes, in a front view, a central portion (e.g., the center) of the front plate portion 21. For example, in a front view, at least a portion of the transmissive portion 25 is located in the central portion of the front plate portion 21. The light-shielding portion 26 is provided around the transmissive portion 25.

[0107] The transparent portion 25 has a predetermined shape representing a device or function controlled by pressing each operation button 20. The predetermined shape is at least one of a figure, a symbol, a pictogram, and a character. The predetermined shape includes, for example, a pictogram. The transparent portion 25 and the light blocking portion 26 cause a portion of the light emitted from the light source 50 to be emitted forward from the front panel portion 21 in the predetermined shape of the transparent portion 25. This makes it possible to illuminate the predetermined shape of the transparent portion 25 (for example, a pictogram).

[0108] Incidentally, transmitting the light of the light source 50 means, for example, a state in which the transmittance of the visible light emitted from the light source 50 is higher than the transmittance of the light-shielding portion 26 for the visible light. The transmitting portion 25 is not limited to being completely transparent, and may be semi-transparent. The light transmitting member and the light-shielding member may be any member that allows the user to recognize that the light from the light source 50 is being emitted from the transmitting portion in a predetermined shape (pictogram).

[0109] For example, in the operation buttons 20c, 20f, and 20o, the shape of the transparent portion 25 is the character "RAKU-YU" and a pictogram representing RAKU-YU. By operating the operation buttons 20c, 20f, and 20o, it is possible to control the start and stop of the operation of a device that dispenses hot water into a bathtub, for example. For example, in the operation buttons 20d, 20g, and 20q, the shape of the transmissive portion 25 is the character "dimming" and a pictogram representing dimming. By operating the operation buttons 20d, 20g, and 20q, the operation (on / off and brightness) of the lighting in the bathroom, for example, can be controlled. For example, in the operation buttons 20e, 20h, and 20r, the shape of the transparent portion 25 is the character "sound" and a pictogram representing sound. By operating the operation buttons 20e, 20h, and 20r, it is possible to control whether or not sound is emitted from a speaker installed in, for example, a bathroom. For example, in the operation buttons 20i and 20t, the shape of the transparent portion 25 is the character "air conditioning" and a pictogram representing air conditioning. By operating the operation buttons 20i and 20t, the operation (on / off, etc.) of an air conditioner installed in, for example, a bathroom can be controlled. Although not shown in the figure, the operation buttons 20p and 20s may also be provided with the light-transmitting portion 25 and the light-shielding portion 26 in a similar manner.

[0110] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a part of the remote control device according to the embodiment. 19, for the sake of convenience, the structure of the remote control device 100 is shown in a simplified schematic manner. In a front view, the protrusion 24 of the operation button 20 is located at the center of the front plate 21 of the operation button 20. The protrusion 24 of the operation button 20 protrudes from the center of the front plate 21 to the rear side, and faces the switch 40 via the operation member 30 and the waterproof member 47. In addition, the transparent portion 25 is located at the center of the front plate 21 in a front view.

[0111] The operation button 20 (a part of the front panel 21 and the protrusion 24), the operation member 30, and the waterproof member 47 are each made of a material that transmits visible light emitted by the light source 50. For example, the light-shielding portion 26 of the operation button 20 is an area of ​​the front surface of the front panel 21 where paint that blocks light from the light source 50 is applied. The transmission portion 25 is an area of ​​the front surface of the front panel 21 where the paint is not applied.

[0112] Each light source 50 belonging to one light source group L and provided around one switch 40 is arranged so that the transmission portion 25 is located within the range of the half-value angle of the directivity of each light source 50. For example, as shown in FIG. 19, an angle θ1 between a central axis Ax1 of one light source 50 (light source 51) and a line segment L1 connecting a point 25e of the transmission portion 25 farthest from the light source 51 and the center of the light source 51 is smaller than a half-value angle α1 of the light source 51. The central axis of the light source 50 is an axis indicating the brightest position in the directivity of the light source 50, and extends in the front-rear direction, for example, passing through the center of the light source 50. The half-value angle is the angle between the direction in which the light intensity is 50% of the light intensity on the central axis and the direction in which the central axis extends. Similarly, for example, the angle θ2 between the central axis Ax2 of one light source 50 (light source 52) and the line segment L2 connecting the point 25f of the transmissive portion 25 farthest from the light source 52 and the center of the light source 52 is smaller than the half-value angle α2 of the light source 52. In this way, in each light source 50 provided around the switch 40, the angle between the central axis of the light source 50 and the line segment connecting the point of the transmissive portion 25 farthest from the light source 50 and the center of the light source 50 is smaller than the half-value angle of the light source.

[0113] In other words, the entirety of the transmissive portion 25 is located within the range of the half-value angle of each of the multiple light sources 50. The specifications of the multiple light sources 50 may be common. That is, for example, the half-value angles of the multiple light sources 50 may be substantially the same as each other.

[0114] 4 and 8, for example, the opening 12 of the case 10 is located in front of each light source 50. As a result, the space between the light source 50 and the transmission portion 25 is not blocked by the case 10 (the upper case 11 and the inner member 16).

[0115] As already mentioned, the protrusion 24 that presses the switch 40 is located at the center of the front plate 21 of the operation button 20. This makes it easy to press the switch 40 via the operation button 20, for example. For example, the switch 40 can be pressed by pressing any part of the front of the operation button 20. On the other hand, at least a part of the transmission part 25 is also located at the center of the front plate 21. Since the switch 40 is located behind the center of the front plate 21, it may be difficult to place a light source behind the center of the front plate 21. In addition, a part of the light emitted from the light source 50 may be blocked by the protrusion 24 of the operation button 20, causing a shadow. Therefore, there is a risk of unevenness in the light emitted from the light source 50 in the transmission part 25. In contrast, according to the embodiment, multiple light sources 50 are arranged around the switch. Each light source 50 is arranged so that the transmission portion 25 is located within the range of the half-value angle of each light source 50. This makes it possible to suppress unevenness in light caused by the shadow of the protrusion 24 of the operation button 20 in the transmission portion 25. Therefore, it is possible to suppress unevenness in the light illuminating the operation button.

[0116] For example, in the second arrangement pattern P2, a light source group Lc (see FIG. 17) is provided around a switch 40 facing a protrusion 24 of an operation button 20c (see FIG. 18(a)). A transmission portion 25 of the operation button 20c is located within a range of a half-value angle of each light source 50 belonging to the light source group Lc. Similarly, in the second arrangement pattern P2, a light source group Lg (see FIG. 17) is provided around the switch 40 facing the protrusion 24 of the operation button 20d (see FIG. 18(a)). The transmissive portion 25 of the operation button 20d is located within the range of the half-value angle of each light source 50 belonging to the light source group Lg. Similarly, in the fifth arrangement pattern P5, a light source group La (see FIG. 17) is provided around the switch 40 facing the protrusion 24 of the operation button 20o (see FIG. 18(c)). The transmissive portion 25 of the operation button 20c is located within the range of the half-value angle of each light source 50 belonging to the light source group La. Similarly, in the fifth arrangement pattern P5, a light source group Le (see FIG. 17) is provided around the switch 40 facing the protrusion 24 of the operation button 20q (see FIG. 18(c)). The transmissive portion 25 of the operation button 20q is located within the range of the half-value angle of each light source 50 belonging to the light source group Le.

[0117] In this manner, in each arrangement pattern of the operation buttons 20 , the transmissive portion 25 of each operation button 20 is located within the range of the half-value angle of the light source 50 arranged around the switch 40 facing the protrusion 24 of each operation button 20 .

[0118] For example, when the operation button 20c (see FIG. 18(a)) is pressed, the central switch 413 (see FIG. 17) is pressed. When the central switch 413 is pressed, the light sources 50 belonging to the light source group Lc (see FIG. 17) start emitting light. As a result, light from the light sources 50 is emitted forward from the transmissive portion 25 of the operation button 20c. Similarly, when the operation button 20d (see FIG. 18(a)) is pressed, the first proximity switch 421 (see FIG. 17) is pressed. When the first proximity switch 421 is pressed, the light sources 50 belonging to the light source group Lg (see FIG. 17) start to emit light. This causes light from the light sources 50 to be emitted forward from the transmissive portion 25 of the operation button 20d. Similarly, when the operation button 20o (see FIG. 18(c)) is pressed, the first outermost switch 411 (see FIG. 17) is pressed. When the first outermost switch 411 is pressed, the light source 50 belonging to the light source group La (see FIG. 17) starts to emit light. This causes light from the light source 50 to be emitted forward from the transmissive portion 25 of the operation button 20o. Similarly, when the operation button 20q (see FIG. 18(c)) is pressed, the second outermost switch 412 (see FIG. 17) is pressed. When the second outermost switch 412 is pressed, the light source 50 belonging to the light source group Le (see FIG. 17) starts to emit light. This causes light from the light source 50 to be emitted forward from the transmissive portion 25 of the operation button 20q.

[0119] In this way, when each operation button 20 is pressed, each switch 40 facing the protrusion 24 of each operation button 20 is pressed. When each switch 40 is pressed, the light source 50 belonging to the light source group L provided around each switch 40 starts emitting light. This allows the pressed operation button 20 to be illuminated in a predetermined shape of the transmission part 25. This allows the user to be notified of the state of the device or function controlled by the pressed operation button 20. Note that, if the light source 50 is already emitting light, it may be controlled to stop emitting light by pressing the operation button 20. For example, the light source 50 is controlled to emit light when the device or function is operating, and to stop emitting light when the operation of the device or function is stopped.

[0120] For example, in the second arrangement pattern P2, light source groups Lc, Lg, and Li are arranged around the switch 40 pressed by the multiple operation buttons 20. In the second arrangement pattern P2, the light sources 50 other than the light sources 50 belonging to these light source groups Lc, Lg, and Li do not need to emit light. In this way, in each arrangement pattern, the light sources 50 other than the light sources 50 arranged around the switch 40 pressed by the multiple operation buttons 20 do not need to emit light even if any of the operation buttons 20 is pressed.

[0121] When the operation button 20 can be arranged in a plurality of arrangement patterns, the position of the center of the operation button 20 changes depending on the arrangement pattern, and therefore the positions of the transmissive portion 25 (pictogram, etc.) and the protrusion 24 change. Even in such a case, it is desired to suppress unevenness in the light emitted from the transmissive portion 25 in each of the plurality of arrangement patterns. In contrast, in the embodiment, as described with reference to FIG. 17, a plurality of light sources 50 included in each light source group L are arranged around each of the plurality of switches 40. Therefore, even if the positions of the protrusion 24 and the transmissive portion 25 of the operation button 20 change due to a change in the arrangement pattern of the operation button 20, it is possible to suppress unevenness in the light caused by the shadow of the protrusion of the operation button 20 in the transmissive portion 25. In other words, it is possible to suppress unevenness in the light emitted from the transmissive portion 25.

[0122] FIG. 20 is a plan view illustrating a part of the substrate of the remote control device according to the embodiment. For example, centers 50p of the multiple light sources 50 provided around the switch 40 are arranged at a predetermined angle φ with the center 40p of the switch 40 as the center in a plan view. In this example, four light sources 50 are arranged around the switch 40, so the angle φ is 90°. This allows the operation button 20 to be illuminated more isotropically. Light unevenness in the operation button can be further suppressed.

[0123] The distance between the center 50p of the multiple light sources 50 provided around the switch 40 and the center 40p of the switch 40 is constant. For example, the centers 50p of the multiple light sources 50 are disposed at positions that are rotationally symmetric with respect to the center 40p of the switch 40.

[0124] In a plan view, the switch 40 is, for example, rectangular and has sides extending vertically and horizontally. In a plan view, the centers 50p of the multiple light sources 50 are located on a diagonal line of the switch 40. A distance Dv between the centers 50p of two light sources 50 adjacent in the vertical direction is the same as a distance Dh between the centers 50p of two light sources 50 adjacent in the horizontal direction.

[0125] When a plurality of light source groups L are arranged for each of the plurality of switches 40 (see FIG. 17), the plurality of light sources 50 included in each light source group L are arranged, in a plan view, at predetermined angles φ around the center 40p of each switch 40. The plurality of light sources 50 included in each light source group L are arranged, in a plan view, at positions that are rotationally symmetric around the center 40p of each switch 40.

[0126] FIG. 21 is a plan view illustrating a part of the substrate of the remote control device according to the embodiment. 21, the light source group La arranged around the first outermost switch 411 is composed of light sources 50a, 50b, 50c, and 50d. Centers 50p of the light sources 50a, 50b, 50c, and 50d are arranged at positions that are four-fold symmetric with respect to the center 40p of the first outermost switch 411.

[0127] The light source group Lb arranged around the first proximity switch 421 is composed of light sources 50c, 50d, 50e, and 50f. The centers of these light sources 50c, 50d, 50e, and 50f are arranged at positions that are four-fold symmetric with respect to the center 40p of the first proximity switch 421.

[0128] The light source 50c and the light source 50d belong to both the light source group La and the light source group Lb. In other words, the light source group La and the light source group Lb share the light source 50c and the light source 50d.

[0129] In this manner, for example, the multiple switches 40 include a first switch (for example, the first outermost switch 411) and a second switch (for example, the first adjacent switch 421) adjacent to each other. The light sources 50 included in the first light source group (for example, the light source group La) are arranged around the first switch. The light sources 50 included in the second light source group (for example, the light source group Lb) are arranged around the second switch. In the embodiment, some of the light sources included in the second light source group (for example, the light sources 50c, 50d) may be common to some of the light sources included in the first light source group. This allows the light sources 50 to be arranged around each of the first switch and the second switch even if the distance between the first switch and the second switch is short. Even if the distance between the first switch and the second switch is short, unevenness of light in the operation button 20 can be suppressed.

[0130] 21, the distance Dh in the light source group La is the same as the distance Dh in the light source group Lb. The distance Dv in the light source group La is the same as the distance Dv in the light source group Lb. In addition, the distance D40 between the center 40p of the first outermost switch 411 and the center 40p of the first proximity switch 421 is the same as the distance Dh.

[0131] For example, in the fifth arrangement pattern P5, the protrusion 24 and the transmissive portion 25 of the operation button 20 are disposed in front of the first outermost switch 411. In the fifth arrangement pattern P5, the light sources 50a, 50b, 50c, and 50d are turned on by pressing the first outermost switch 411. In the fifth arrangement pattern P5, the light sources 50e and 50f are not turned on.

[0132] On the other hand, for example, in the third arrangement pattern P3, the protrusion 24 and the transparent portion 25 of the operation button 20 are arranged in front of the first proximity switch 421. In the third arrangement pattern P3, the light sources 50c, 50d, 50e, and 50f are turned on by pressing the first proximity switch 421. In the third arrangement pattern P3, the light sources 50a and 50b are not turned on.

[0133] Thus, in the embodiment, the multiple light sources 50 included in the multiple light source groups L can include light sources 50 that belong to two or more light source groups L, and light sources 50 that belong to only one light source group L.

[0134] 22 to 25 are plan views illustrating modified examples of the remote control device according to the embodiment. Remote control device 101 according to the embodiment shown in these figures differs from remote control device 100 described above in the number of operation buttons 20 that can be arranged in the left-right direction. These figures show an example of the inside of remote control device 101, omitting illustration of inner member 16 and waterproof member 47. In addition, the positions of operation buttons 20 are indicated by dotted lines.

[0135] In remote control device 101 as well, operation buttons 20 can be arranged on the front side of case 10 in a variety of arrangement patterns.

[0136] For example, Fig. 22 shows a case where the operation buttons 20 are arranged in an arrangement pattern with one in the left-right direction and two in the up-down direction. That is, in Fig. 22, the operation button arrangement range R is divided into two regions arranged vertically, and one operation button 20 is arranged in each region. The protrusion 24 (not shown in Fig. 22) of each operation button 20 is located in the center of each divided region. A central switch 413 of the switches 40 provided on the substrate 45 is arranged so as to face the protrusion 24 of the operation button 20. The operation member 30 is attached to the attachment portion 17 of the case 10 so that the pressing portion 31 is located between the protrusion 24 of the operation button 20 and the switch 40 (central switch 413) facing the protrusion 24.

[0137] For example, FIG. 23 shows a case where the operation buttons 20 are arranged in two horizontal and two vertical arrangement patterns. That is, in FIG. 23, the operation button arrangement range R is divided into four 2×2 regions, and one operation button 20 is arranged in each region. The protrusion 24 (not shown in FIG. 23) of each operation button 20 is located in the center of each divided region. Among the switches 40 provided on the substrate 45, the switch 40 located second to the left or right from the central switch 413 is arranged so as to face the protrusion 24 of the operation button 20. The operation member 30 is attached to the attachment portion 17 of the case 10 so that the pressing portion 31 is located between the protrusion 24 of the operation button 20 and the switch 40 (the switch 40 located second to the left or right from the central switch 413) facing the protrusion 24.

[0138] For example, FIG. 24 shows a case where the operation buttons 20 are arranged in an arrangement pattern of three in the left-right direction and two in the up-down direction. That is, in FIG. 24, the operation button arrangement range R is divided into six regions of 2×3, and one operation button 20 is arranged in each region. The protrusion 24 (not shown in FIG. 22) of each operation button 20 is located in the center of each divided region. Of the switches 40 provided on the board 45, the central switch 413, the first proximity switch 421, and the second proximity switch 422 are arranged so as to face the protrusion 24 of the operation button 20. The operation member 30 is attached to the attachment portion 17 of the case 10 so that the pressing portion 31 is located between the protrusion 24 of the operation button 20 and the switch 40 (the central switch 413, the first proximity switch 421, and the second proximity switch 422) facing the protrusion 24.

[0139] For example, FIG. 25 shows a case where the operation buttons 20 are arranged in an arrangement pattern of four in the left-right direction and two in the up-down direction. That is, in FIG. 25, the operation button arrangement range R is divided into eight regions of 2×4, and one operation button 20 is arranged in each region. The protrusion 24 (not shown in FIG. 25) of each operation button 20 is located in the center of each divided region. Among the switches 40 provided on the substrate 45, the switches 40 located next to the first outermost switch 411, the second outermost switch 412, and the central switch 413 are arranged so as to face the protrusion 24 of the operation button 20. The operation member 30 is attached to the attachment portion 17 of the case 10 so that the pressing portion 31 is located between the protrusion 24 of the operation button 20 and the switch 40 (the switch 40 located next to the first outermost switch 411, the second outermost switch 412, and the central switch 413) that faces the protrusion 24.

[0140] In this way, it is possible to arrange four or more operation buttons 20 in the left-right direction by arranging the operation members 30 in accordance with the arrangement of the switches 40. In addition, although the above example shows an arrangement pattern in which the operation buttons 20 are arranged in two rows in the vertical direction, the arrangement pattern of the operation buttons 20 may be one row, or three or more rows in the vertical direction.

[0141] The embodiment may include the following features. (Configuration 1) A substrate having a switch provided thereon; a case for storing the board and for allowing an operation button to be disposed on a front side; a light source group including a plurality of light sources arranged on a rear side of the operation button and arranged around the switch in a plan view; Equipped with the operation button is biased to move away from the case, and includes a front plate portion, a protrusion protruding from the front plate portion toward a rear side and facing the switch, and a protrusion for pressing the switch by a force pressing the operation button; Including, The front plate portion is a transmission portion that transmits light emitted from the plurality of light sources; a shielding portion provided around the transmission portion in a front view and configured to shield the light; having A remote control device, wherein each of the plurality of light sources is arranged such that the transmission portion is located within a range of a half-value angle of each of the plurality of light sources. (Configuration 2) 2. The remote control device according to configuration 1, wherein, when viewed from the front, the centers of the plurality of light sources are arranged at predetermined angles around the center of the switch. (Configuration 3) The switch is provided in plurality, The light source group is provided in plurality, The case is capable of arranging the operation buttons on a front side in a plurality of arrangement patterns; the number of the operation buttons in the plurality of arrangement patterns is different from one another, In each of the plurality of arrangement patterns, an operation button arrangement range in a front view of the case is an area corresponding to the number of the operation buttons; the operation buttons are arranged in the respective regions such that the protrusions are located in the respective regions in a front view, In each of the plurality of arrangement patterns, a portion of the plurality of switches faces the protrusion of the operation button, the projection presses a part of each of the switches by a force applied to each of the operation buttons; The remote control device according to configuration 1 or 2, wherein the light sources included in each of the light source groups are arranged around each of the switches. (Configuration 4) The plurality of switches include a first switch and a second switch disposed adjacent to the first switch, The plurality of light source groups include a first light source group and a second light source group; the plurality of light sources included in the first light source group are arranged around the first switch, the plurality of light sources included in the second light source group are arranged around the second switch, 4. The remote control device according to configuration 3, wherein some of the plurality of light sources included in the second light source group are common to some of the plurality of light sources included in the first light source group.

[0142] The above describes the embodiments of the present invention. However, the present invention is not limited to these descriptions. Any design modifications made by a person skilled in the art to the above-described embodiments are also included within the scope of the present invention as long as they include the characteristics of the present invention. For example, the shape, dimensions, materials, arrangement, installation form, etc. of each element are not limited to those exemplified, and can be modified as appropriate. Furthermore, the elements of each of the above-described embodiments can be combined to the extent technically possible, and such combinations are also included within the scope of the present invention as long as they include the features of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0143] 10: Case 11: Upper case 12, 12a~12f: Opening 16: Inner member 17: Mounting part 18: Lower case 20, 20a to 20t: Operation buttons 21: Front plate part 22: Side wall 24: Protrusion 25:Transparent part 26: Shading part 30, 30a to 30q: Operating members 31: Pressing part 32: Support part 33: Engagement part 40: Switch 40p:center 41: Connected switch 45: Circuit board 47: Waterproofing materials 50, 50a~50f: Light source 50p:center 51, 52: Light source 100, 101: remote control device 161: Claw part 162, 162a~162f: Through hole 163: Claw part 171: Convex 172: Recess 221: Engagement part 411: First outermost switch 412: Second outermost switch 413: Central switch 421: First proximity switch 422: Second proximity switch 471: Part Ax1, Ax2: Center axis D40:Distance Dh: distance DV: distance Gr, Gr1, Gr2: Switch group L: Light source group L1, L2: Line segments La~Lj: Light source group P1~P5: 1st to 5th arrangement patterns R: Operation button layout range X1, X31, X32, X51, X52:Position d1~d3: distance r, ra~rj: field θ1, θ2: angle φ: Angle α1, α2: half value angle

Claims

1. A substrate having a switch provided thereon; a case for storing the board and for allowing an operation button to be disposed on a front side; a light source group including a plurality of light sources arranged on a rear side of the operation button and arranged around the switch in a plan view; Equipped with the operation button is biased to move away from the case, and includes a front plate portion, a protrusion protruding from the front plate portion toward a rear side and facing the switch, and a protrusion for pressing the switch by a force pressing the operation button; Including, The front plate portion is a transmission portion that transmits light emitted from the plurality of light sources; a shielding portion provided around the transmission portion in a front view and configured to shield the light; having A remote control device, wherein each of the plurality of light sources is arranged such that the transmission portion is located within a range of a half-value angle of each of the plurality of light sources.

2. 2. The remote control device according to claim 1, wherein, in a front view, centers of the plurality of light sources are arranged at predetermined angular intervals around a center of the switch.

3. The switch is provided in plurality, The light source group is provided in plurality, The case is capable of arranging the operation buttons on a front side in a plurality of arrangement patterns; the number of the operation buttons in the plurality of arrangement patterns is different from one another, In each of the plurality of arrangement patterns, an operation button arrangement range in a front view of the case is an area corresponding to the number of the operation buttons; the operation buttons are arranged in the respective regions such that the protrusions are located in the respective regions in a front view, In each of the plurality of arrangement patterns, a portion of the plurality of switches faces the protrusion of the operation button, the projection presses a part of each of the switches by a force applied to each of the operation buttons; The remote control device according to claim 1 , wherein the light sources included in each of the light source groups are arranged around each of the switches.

4. The plurality of switches include a first switch and a second switch disposed adjacent to the first switch, The plurality of light source groups include a first light source group and a second light source group; the plurality of light sources included in the first light source group are arranged around the first switch, the plurality of light sources included in the second light source group are arranged around the second switch, The remote control device according to claim 3 , wherein some of the plurality of light sources included in the second light source group are common to some of the plurality of light sources included in the first light source group.

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