Input device

Abstract

To make it possible to suppress instability of an output value of a detection value of horizontal operation against intention of an operator when pressing operation is performed.SOLUTION: An input device includes: a strain body having an operation shaft; a load sensor for detecting a horizontal load applied to the operation shaft; an operation member that is provided on an upper portion of the operation shaft and capable of performing pressing operation; a switch unit for detecting the pressing operation by the operation member; and a control unit for outputting a detection value of a load in a horizontal direction and the detection value of the pressing operation by the switch unit to the outside. The control unit does not update an output value of the detection value of the load in the horizontal direction while the pressing operation is detected by the switch unit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an input device. [Background technology]

[0002] The following Patent Document 1 discloses a stick-type coordinate input device in which a rod attached to the operating member activates a pressure sensor to detect pressing of the operating member, and a strain sensor attached to a substrate on the lower side of the operating member detects tilting of the operating member, thereby enabling simultaneous tilting and pressing operations. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent No. 4667732 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, in the stick-type coordinate input device of Patent Document 1, when a pressing operation is performed, part of the load applied to the operating member by the pressing operation is also applied to the strain sensor, which may cause the load to become unstable against the operator's intention. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] An input device according to one embodiment includes a strain body having an operating shaft, a load sensor that detects a horizontal load applied to the operating shaft, a depressable operating member provided on an upper portion of the operating shaft, a switch unit that detects a pressing operation by the operating member, and a control unit that outputs to the outside a detected value of the horizontal load and a detected value of a pressing operation by the switch unit, and the control unit does not update the output value of the detected value of the horizontal load while a pressing operation is detected by the switch unit. Effect of the Invention

[0006] According to an input device according to an embodiment, when a pressing operation is performed, it is possible to suppress the output value of the detection value of the horizontal operation from becoming unstable against the operator's intention. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an external perspective view of an input device according to an embodiment; [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of an input device according to an embodiment; [Diagram 3] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of an input device according to an embodiment, as viewed from below; [Figure 4] FIG. 1 is a perspective cross-sectional view of an input device according to an embodiment; [Diagram 5] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a control system included in an input device according to an embodiment. [Figure 6] 1 is a flowchart showing a first example of an output control process performed by a control device included in an input device according to an embodiment; [Figure 7] A timing chart showing an example of time changes in detection values ​​and output values ​​of a horizontal operation in an input device according to an embodiment. [Figure 8] 11 is a flowchart showing a second example of an output control process performed by a control device included in an input device according to an embodiment. [Figure 9] A timing chart showing an example of time changes in detection values ​​and output values ​​of a horizontal operation in an input device according to an embodiment. [Figure 10] 11 is a flowchart showing a third example of an output control process performed by a control device included in an input device according to an embodiment. [Figure 11] 11 is a flowchart showing a fourth example of an output control process performed by a control device included in an input device according to an embodiment. [Figure 12] 11 is a flowchart showing a fifth example of an output control process performed by a control device included in an input device according to an embodiment. [Figure 13] 11 is a flowchart showing a modified example of an output control process performed by a control device included in an input device according to an embodiment. [Figure 14]11 is a flowchart showing a sixth example of an output control process performed by a control device included in an input device according to an embodiment. [Figure 15] 13 is a flowchart showing a seventh example of an output control process performed by a control device included in an input device according to an embodiment. [Figure 16] 1 is a flowchart showing a calibration process performed by a control device included in an input device according to an embodiment; [Figure 17] FIG. 13 is an external perspective view of an input device according to a modified example of an embodiment. [Figure 18] FIG. 13 is an exploded perspective view of an input device according to a modified example of an embodiment, as viewed from above; [Figure 19] FIG. 13 is a perspective cross-sectional view of an input device according to a modified example of the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0008] An embodiment will be described below. For the sake of convenience, in the following description, the X-axis direction in the figure is the front-rear direction, the Y-axis direction in the figure is the left-right direction, and the Z-axis direction in the figure is the up-down direction. However, the positive X-axis direction is the forward direction, the positive Y-axis direction is the rightward direction, and the positive Z-axis direction is the upward direction. These indicate the relative positional relationship within the device, and do not limit the installation direction or operation direction of the device. Anything that has the same relative positional relationship within the device, even if the installation direction or operation direction is different, is included in the scope of the present invention.

[0009] [One embodiment] (Configuration of input device 100) Fig. 1 is an external perspective view of an input device 100 according to an embodiment. Fig. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the input device 100 according to an embodiment, as viewed from above. Fig. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the input device 100 according to an embodiment, as viewed from below. Fig. 4 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the input device 100 according to an embodiment.

[0010] 1 to 3, the input device 100 is used in, for example, a game controller, a notebook computer, etc., and is capable of horizontal operation in the horizontal direction (X-axis direction and Y-axis direction) and pressing operation downward (positive direction of the Z-axis). As shown in FIGS. 1 to 3, the input device 100 includes a substrate 110, a movable contact 120, a flexible substrate 130, a strain generating body 140, and an operating member 150.

[0011] The substrate 110 is a horizontal, flat, resin member provided at the bottom (Z-axis negative side) of the input device 100. As an example, in this embodiment, the substrate 110 has a square shape when viewed from above (Z-axis positive direction) in a plan view.

[0012] Provided at the center of upper surface 110A of substrate 110 are a circular first fixed contact 111 and an annular second fixed contact 112 surrounding first fixed contact 111. Both first fixed contact 111 and second fixed contact 112 are thin metal plates.

[0013] The substrate 110 is secured to an arbitrary installation surface by four screws 161 that pass through the substrate 110 and the base 141 of the flexure body 140 in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) while overlapping the base 141 of the flexure body 140.

[0014] The movable contact 120 is a thin metal plate that is overlapped on the upper sides of the first fixed contact 111 and the second fixed contact 112 of the substrate 110. The movable contact 120 has, at the center thereof, a dome-shaped dome portion 121 that protrudes upward (in the positive direction of the Z axis).

[0015] The movable contact 120, together with the first fixed contact 111 and the second fixed contact 112, constitutes a "switch section." The movable contact 120 is always in contact with the second fixed contact 112 at the outer edge of the dome section 121. When the operation member 150 is not pressed, the center of the dome section 121 is separated from the first fixed contact 111. When the operation member 150 is pressed, the dome section 121 is pressed by the pressing section 152A of the operation member 150, so that the dome section 121 reverses and the center of the dome section 121 comes into contact with the first fixed contact 111. This allows the movable contact 120 to make the first fixed contact 111 and the second fixed contact 112 mutually conductive via the movable contact 120. The movable contact 120 generates a clicking sensation due to the reverse operation of the dome section 121.

[0016] Flexible substrate 130 is a flexible film-like wiring member provided in recess 143 formed on the lower surface of base 141 of flexure body 140 and fixed to the ceiling surface of recess 143. Flexible substrate 130 is attached to the ceiling surface of recess 143 within recess 143 of flexure body 140 by any bonding means (for example, adhesive). Flexible substrate 130 has base 130A and lead-out portion 130B.

[0017] The base 130A is a portion having an annular shape and disposed at the center of the lower surface of the base 141 of the strain body 140. A circular central opening 131 is formed at the center of the base 130A. A shaft 152 of the operating member 150 is inserted into the central opening 131.

[0018] Lead portion 130B is a strip-shaped portion that extends outward in an L-shape from the outer periphery of base portion 130A. Lead portion 130B has a tip that is electrically connected to the outside.

[0019] In the flexible substrate 130, four strain sensors 132 are provided around a central opening 131 on the underside of the base 130A on the same circumference and at equal intervals (i.e., 90 degree intervals). Each of the four strain sensors 132 is a resistor printed on the underside of the base 130A. The four strain sensors 132 are an example of a "load sensor" and are provided to detect a horizontal load applied to the operating shaft 142 of the strain body 140.

[0020] Specifically, strain sensors 132 are provided on the lower surface of base 130A of flexible substrate 130 in four directions (right (positive Y-axis direction), left (negative Y-axis direction), front (positive X-axis direction), and rear (negative X-axis direction)) based on central opening 131. That is, the four strain sensors 132 are arranged in a cross shape around central opening 131.

[0021] Furthermore, the detection direction of each of the four strain sensors 132 is set in a radial direction centered on the operating shaft 142. For this reason, when the operating member 150 is operated horizontally and a distortion occurs in the base 141 (around the root portion of the operating shaft 142) via the operating shaft 142, each of the four strain sensors 132 changes its resistance value by deforming (expanding or contracting) in response to the distortion of the base 141. This allows each of the four strain sensors 132 to detect the distortion of the base 141 due to the horizontal operation of the operating shaft 142, and therefore to detect the horizontal load applied to the operating shaft 142 by the horizontal operation of the operating member 150.

[0022] The flexible substrate 130 can output a load detection signal (analog signal) representing the horizontal load applied to the operating axis 142 detected by each of the four strain sensors 132 to the outside (control device 170) via the pull-out portion 130B.

[0023] Specifically, the two strain sensors 132, which are arranged in front (positive direction of the X-axis) and behind (negative direction of the X-axis) with respect to the central opening 131, are electrically connected in series with each other. When a load in the X-axis direction is applied to the operating shaft 142, one expands and the other contracts, causing a change in the voltage value at the midpoint between the two strain sensors 132. Therefore, an external device (control device 170) (output destination of the load detection signal) can detect the load in the X-axis direction applied to the operating shaft 142 based on the voltage value (load detection signal) at the midpoint.

[0024] Furthermore, the two strain sensors 132 arranged to the right (positive Y-axis direction) and left (negative Y-axis direction) of the central opening 131 are electrically connected in series with each other. When a load in the Y-axis direction is applied to the operating shaft 142, one expands and the other contracts, causing a change in the voltage value at the midpoint between the two strain sensors 132. Therefore, an external device (control device 170) (output destination of the load detection signal) can detect the load in the Y-axis direction applied to the operating shaft 142 based on the voltage value (load detection signal) at the midpoint.

[0025] The flexure body 140 is a resin member that is distorted by receiving an operational load from the operating member 150 when the operating member 150 is horizontally operated. The flexure body 140 has a base 141 and an operating shaft 142.

[0026] The base 141 is a horizontal plate-like portion having a constant thickness in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction). The base 141 has the same shape as the substrate 110 when viewed from above (Z-axis positive direction) in a plan view, that is, has a square shape.

[0027] A recess 143 that is recessed upward is formed on the lower surface of the base 141. The recess 143 has the same shape as the flexible substrate 130 (the base 130A and a part of the lead-out portion 130B) in a plan view from below (the negative direction of the Z axis). This allows the flexible substrate 130 (the base 130A and a part of the lead-out portion 130B) to be disposed inside the recess 143 of the flexure body 140.

[0028] Operating shaft 142 is a columnar part that is vertically disposed upward (in the positive direction of the Z axis) from the center of the upper surface of base 141. Operating shaft 142 transmits a load to base 141 when a horizontal operation is performed on operating member 150 (i.e., when a load is applied in the horizontal direction). The load transmitted via operating shaft 142 causes distortion in the portion of base 141 around operating shaft 142.

[0029] A circular through hole 144 is formed in the center of the flexure body 140, penetrating the base 141 and the operation shaft 142 in the up-down direction (Z-axis direction). A shaft 152 of the operation member 150 is inserted into the through hole 144. This allows the flexure body 140 to support the operation member 150 movably in the up-down direction (Z-axis direction).

[0030] The operating member 150 is a resin member provided on the upper part of the operating shaft 142 of the strain generating body 140. The operating member 150 has an operating portion 151 and a shaft portion 152.

[0031] The operation unit 151 is a cylindrical portion provided at the upper end of the operation member 150 and having a larger diameter than the operation shaft 142 of the strain generating body 140. The operation unit 151 is disposed above the operation shaft 142. The operator touches the operation unit 151 to perform horizontal operation and pressing operation.

[0032] The shaft portion 152 is a cylindrical portion that is provided hanging downward (in the negative Z-axis direction) from the center of the lower surface of the operation portion 151, and has a smaller diameter than the operation shaft 142 of the strain body 140. The operation member 150 has the shaft portion 152 inserted into the through hole 144 of the strain body 140. As a result, the operation member 150 is supported by the strain body 140 so as to be movable in the up-down direction (Z-axis direction). When the operator presses the operation member 150 (i.e., an operation in which a load is applied downward), the operation member 150 moves downward. When the operator operates the operation member 150 horizontally (i.e., an operation in which a load is applied horizontally), the shaft portion 152 applies a load to the operation shaft 142 of the strain body 140 from the inside.

[0033] A cylindrical pressing portion 152A is provided at the lower end of the shaft portion 152. The pressing portion 152A is provided above (on the positive side of the Z axis) the central portion of the movable contact 120 so as to face the central portion of the movable contact 120. When a pressing operation is performed by the operating member 150, the pressing portion 152A presses the central portion of the movable contact 120, thereby elastically deforming the central portion of the movable contact 120 and bringing the central portion of the movable contact 120 into contact with the first fixed contact 111.

[0034] As described above, in the input device 100 according to one embodiment, the operating member 150 has the shaft portion 152 penetrating the strain body 140, the strain sensor 132 is provided on the flexible substrate 130 fixed to the underside of the strain body 140, and when a horizontal operation is performed with the operating member 150 and a load is applied to the operating shaft 142, the strain sensor 132 detects the strain generated in the strain body 140, thereby detecting the horizontal load applied to the operating shaft 142, and the switch portion is provided on the underside of the strain body 140, and when a pressing operation is performed with the operating member 150, the switch portion is pressed by the shaft portion 152 of the operating member 150, thereby detecting the pressing operation by the operating member 150.

[0035] As a result, in the input device 100 according to one embodiment, when a horizontal operation is performed with the operating member 150, the shaft portion 152 can reliably cause distortion in the strain body 140 without pressing the switch portion, and when a pressing operation is performed with the operating member 150, the shaft portion 152 can reliably press the switch portion without causing distortion in the strain body 140.

[0036] Moreover, in the input device 100 according to one embodiment, the switch section includes a movable contact 120 having an elastically deformable dome-shaped dome portion 121, and a first fixed contact 111 provided below the movable contact 120. When the dome portion 121 is pressed by the operating member 150, the dome portion 121 reverses and comes into contact with the first fixed contact 111, thereby detecting a pressing operation by the operating member 150.

[0037] As a result, the input device 100 according to the embodiment can reliably detect the pressing operation of the operating member 150 using a relatively simple configuration including the movable contact 120 and the first fixed contact 111.

[0038] Moreover, in the input device 100 according to one embodiment, the movable contact 120 is a metal plate having a dome portion 121, and generates a clicking sensation by a reversing operation.

[0039] As a result, the input device 100 of one embodiment can provide a clicking sensation to an operator who performs a pressing operation using the operating member 150, allowing the operator to easily and tactilely know that the pressing operation has been performed reliably.

[0040] (Configuration of the control system of the input device 100) FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a control system included in the input device 100 according to an embodiment.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 5, the control system of the input device 100 includes a first fixed contact 111, a second fixed contact 112, four strain sensors 132, and a control device 170.

[0042] The control device 170 is an example of a "control unit." The control device 170 is electrically connected to the first fixed contact 111 and the second fixed contact 112. This allows the control device 170 to detect whether the first fixed contact 111 and the second fixed contact 112 are conductive with each other. The control device 170 can detect that the switch unit is on by detecting that the first fixed contact 111 and the second fixed contact 112 are conductive with each other via the movable contact 120, that is, can detect a pressing operation by the operating member 150.

[0043] Moreover, the control device 170 is electrically connected to each of the four strain sensors 132. Specifically, the control device 170 is connected to a bridge circuit configured including the four strain sensors 132.

[0044] The control device 170 can detect the load in the X-axis direction applied to the operating shaft 142 accompanying horizontal operation of the operating member 150 based on the voltage value at the midpoint between the two strain sensors 132 (strain sensor (X+) and strain sensor (X-)) provided in the X-axis direction.

[0045] In addition, the control device 170 can detect the load in the X-axis direction applied to the operating shaft 142 accompanying horizontal operation of the operating member 150 based on the voltage value at the midpoint between two strain sensors 132 (strain sensor (Y+) and strain sensor (Y-)) provided in the Y-axis direction.

[0046] The control device 170 includes a processor (e.g., a CPU (Central Processing Unit)), a memory (e.g., a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory)), etc. The control device 170 realizes each function of the control device 170 by the processor executing a program stored in the memory. For example, an IC (Integrated Circuit) is used as the control device 170.

[0047] (First example of output control process for the control device 170) FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a first example of an output control process by the control device 170 included in the input device 100 according to an embodiment.

[0048] The meanings of the various values ​​used in the output control process shown in FIG. 6 are as follows: Variable SW_Status: Value indicating the switch status Detected value X: Detected value of the load in the X-axis direction applied to the operating axis 142 by the strain sensor 132 Detected value Y: Detected value of the load in the Y-axis direction applied to the operating shaft 142 by the strain sensor 132 Output value Xvalue: Output value of the load in the X-axis direction applied to the operating axis 142 Output value Yvalue: Output value of the load in the Y-axis direction applied to the operating axis 142

[0049] First, the control device 170 judges whether the switch section (SW) is on or not (step S601). Here, when the control device 170 detects that the first fixed contact 111 and the second fixed contact 112 are electrically connected to each other, it judges that the switch section (SW) is on. On the other hand, when the control device 170 detects that the first fixed contact 111 and the second fixed contact 112 are not electrically connected to each other, it judges that the switch section (SW) is off.

[0050] In step S601, if it is determined that the switch unit (SW) is on (step S601: Yes), the control device 170 sets the variable SW_Status to "ON" (step S602). Then, the control device 170 outputs the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue without updating them (step S605). That is, the detection value when the switch unit (SW) was last off is output. After that, the control device 170 ends the series of processes shown in FIG. 6.

[0051] On the other hand, if it is determined in step S601 that the switch unit (SW) is off (step S601: No), the control device 170 sets the variable SW_Status to "OFF" (step S603). Then, the control device 170 updates the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue to the detection value X and the detection value Y (step S604), and outputs the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue (step S605). After that, the control device 170 ends the series of processes shown in FIG. 6.

[0052] When the input device 100 is started, the control device 170 initializes the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue to "0." Furthermore, while the input device 100 is running, the control device 170 repeatedly executes the series of processes shown in FIG.

[0053] FIG. 7 is a timing chart showing an example of time changes in detection values ​​and output values ​​of a horizontal operation in the input device 100 according to an embodiment.

[0054] 7, the dotted line indicates the detection value of the horizontal operation (the detection value of the horizontal direction applied to the operation shaft 142 by the strain sensor 132). Also, in the upper part of Fig. 7, the solid line indicates the output value of the detection value of the horizontal operation.

[0055] As shown in FIG. 7, in the input device 100, if a pressing operation is performed with the operating member 150 while a horizontal operation is being performed with the operating member 150, there is a risk that the detection value of the horizontal operation will become unstable due to the influence of the pressing operation.

[0056] However, in the input device 100, the control device 170 executes the series of processes shown in FIG. 6, and thereby the output value of the detection value of the horizontal operation is not updated while a pressing operation is being performed by the operating member 150, as shown in FIG. 7, thereby making it possible to keep the output value constant.

[0057] As described above, in the input device 100 according to one embodiment, the control device 170 executes the series of processes shown in FIG. 6, so that the output value of the detection value of the horizontal load is not updated while the pressing operation of the operating member 150 is detected by the switch unit.

[0058] As a result, when a horizontal operation and a pressing operation are performed simultaneously with the operating member 150, the input device 100 according to one embodiment can keep the output value of the detection value of the horizontal operation constant even if the detection value of the horizontal operation (i.e., the detection value of the horizontal load applied to the operating axis 142) becomes unstable due to the influence of the pressing operation. Therefore, the input device 100 according to one embodiment can prevent the output value of the detection value of the horizontal operation from becoming unstable against the operator's intention.

[0059] (Second example of output control process for the control device 170) FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a second example of the output control process by the control device 170 included in the input device 100 according to an embodiment.

[0060] The meanings of the various values ​​used in the output control process shown in FIG. 8 are as follows: Variable SW_Status: Value indicating the switch status Detected value X: Detected value of the load in the X-axis direction applied to the operating axis 142 by the strain sensor 132 Detected value Y: Detected value of the load in the Y-axis direction applied to the operating shaft 142 by the strain sensor 132 Output value Xvalue: Output value of the load in the X-axis direction applied to the operating axis 142 Output value Yvalue: Output value of the load in the Y-axis direction applied to the operating axis 142 Variable Off_count: The duration after the switch (SW) is turned off Variable W: A variable for gradually changing the weighting of the moving average

[0061] First, the control device 170 determines whether the switch unit (SW) is on or not (step S801).

[0062] In step S801, if it is determined that the switch unit (SW) is on (step S801: Yes), the control device 170 sets the variable SW_Status to "ON" (step S802).

[0063] Then, the control device 170 judges whether or not at least one of the detection value X and the detection value Y has suddenly changed just before the switch section (SW) is turned on (step S803). Here, the control device 170 judges that "the detection values ​​X, Y have suddenly changed just before the switch section (SW) is turned on" when the difference between the detection value when the switch section (SW) is turned on and the detection value immediately before is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold. For example, when the detection value X and the detection value Y are detected every 0.1 seconds, the control device 170 judges that "the detection values ​​X, Y have suddenly changed just before the switch section (SW) is turned on" when at least one of the difference between the detection value X when the switch section (SW) is turned on and the detection value X 0.1 seconds ago, and the difference between the detection value Y when the switch section (SW) is turned on and the detection value Y 0.1 seconds ago is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold.

[0064] In step S803, if it is determined that "the detection values ​​X and Y suddenly changed immediately before the switch unit (SW) was turned on" (step S803: Yes), the control device 170 updates the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue to the detection value X before the sudden change and the detection value Y before the sudden change (step S804). Here, the control device 170 calculates the difference between the detection value and the previous detection value for each previous detection value before the sudden change, and when the difference becomes less than a predetermined threshold, specifies the previous detection value as the "detection value before the sudden change". Then, the control device 170 sets the variable W to the initial value "0" (step S806), sets the variable Off_count to the initial value "0" (step S807), and outputs the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue (step S815). After that, the control device 170 ends the series of processes shown in FIG. 8.

[0065] In step S803, if it is determined that "the detection values ​​X and Y have not changed suddenly just before the switch section (SW) is turned on" (step S803: No), the control device 170 updates the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue to the detection value X and the detection value Y (step S805). Then, the control device 170 sets the variable W to an initial value of "0" (step S806), sets the variable Off_count to an initial value of "0" (step S807), and outputs the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue (step S815). After that, the control device 170 ends the series of processes shown in FIG. 8.

[0066] In step S801, if it is determined that the switch unit (SW) is off (step S801: No), the control device 170 sets the variable SW_Status to "OFF" (step S808). Then, the control device 170 determines whether the variable Off_count is less than a predetermined threshold TH (step S809).

[0067] If it is determined in step S809 that the variable Off_count is less than the predetermined threshold value TH (step S809: Yes), the control device 170 adds "1" to the variable Off_count (step S810). Then, the control device 170 outputs the output values ​​Xvalue and Yvalue without updating them (step S815). Thereafter, the control device 170 ends the series of processes shown in FIG. 8. If the duration of the switch section (SW) being in the OFF state is less than the threshold value Th, it is considered that the force pressing the operating member 150 has weakened against the operator's intention. For this reason, the control device 170 continues to output switch ON.

[0068] If it is determined in step S809 that the variable Off_count is equal to or greater than the predetermined threshold value TH (step S809: No), the control device 170 determines whether the variable W is less than "10" (step S811).

[0069] In step S811, if it is determined that the variable W is less than "10" (step S811: Yes), the control device 170 adds "1" to the variable W (step S812). Then, the control device 170 calculates the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue using a moving average calculation formula (step S813). Furthermore, the control device 170 outputs the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue calculated in step S813 (step S815). After that, the control device 170 ends the series of processes shown in FIG. 8. If the output value suddenly changes from the X / Y value before the sudden change to the latest X / Y value, the operator feels uncomfortable. For this reason, the output value of the control device 170 is gradually made to approach the latest X / Y value from the X / Y value before the sudden change.

[0070] In step S811, if it is determined that the variable W is equal to or greater than "10" (step S811: No), the control device 170 updates the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue to the detection value X and the detection value Y (step S814), and outputs the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue (step S815). After that, the control device 170 ends the series of processes shown in FIG.

[0071] When the input device 100 is started, the control device 170 initializes the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue to "0." Furthermore, while the input device 100 is running, the control device 170 repeatedly executes the series of processes shown in FIG.

[0072] (An example of a moving average calculation formula) Here, an example of a formula for calculating the moving average used in step S813 of the flowchart shown in FIG. 8 will be described.

[0073] (Example 1) For example, the control device 170 may calculate the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue according to the following formulas (1) and (2).

[0074]

number

number

[0075] The above formulas (1) and (2) are used to calculate new output values ​​Xvalue and Yvalue using the detection values ​​X, Y and the output values ​​Xvalue, Yvalue through a modified moving average, which is a type of exponential moving average, and use fixed values ​​(for example, "0.3" and "0.7") for the first coefficient by which the detection values ​​X, Y are multiplied and the second coefficient by which the output values ​​Xvalue, Yvalue are multiplied.

[0076] As a result, the control device 170 can gradually return the output values ​​Xvalue and Yvalue, which have been constant since the switch section (SW) was switched on, to the actual detection values ​​X and Y over multiple times (10 times as an example in the flowchart shown in FIG. 8) after the switch section (SW) is switched off.

[0077] (Example 2) Furthermore, for example, the control device 170 may calculate the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue by the following formulas (3) and (4).

[0078]

number

number

[0079] The above formulas (3) and (4) are used to calculate new output values ​​Xvalue and Yvalue using the detection values ​​X, Y and the output values ​​Xvalue, Yvalue by a modified moving average, which is a type of exponential moving average, and gradually change the first coefficient by which the detection values ​​X, Y are multiplied and the second coefficient by which the output values ​​Xvalue, Yvalue are multiplied.

[0080] As a result, the control device 170 can gradually return the output values ​​Xvalue and Yvalue, which have been constant since the switch section (SW) was switched on, to the actual detection values ​​X and Y over multiple times (10 times as an example in the flowchart shown in FIG. 8) after the switch section (SW) is switched off.

[0081] (Example 3) Also, for example, the control device 170 may calculate the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue by a simple moving average. For example, in the first example, the moving average is calculated multiple times using the above formulas (1) and (2), but the moving average may be calculated only once using the above formulas (1) and (2), and the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue may be calculated using a simple moving average with both coefficients set to "0.5".

[0082] (Example 4) Also, for example, the control device 170 may store the detected values ​​X and Y multiple times in a memory, and calculate the Xvalue and Yvalue by a simple moving average using the detected values ​​X and Y multiple times.

[0083] FIG. 9 is a timing chart showing an example of time changes in detection values ​​and output values ​​of a horizontal operation in the input device 100 according to an embodiment.

[0084] 9, the dotted line indicates the detection value of the horizontal operation (the detection value of the horizontal direction applied to the operation shaft 142 by the strain sensor 132). Also, in the upper part of FIG 9, the solid line indicates the output value of the detection value of the horizontal operation.

[0085] As shown in FIG. 9, in the input device 100, if a pressing operation is performed with the operating member 150 while a horizontal operation is being performed with the operating member 150, there is a risk that the detection value of the horizontal operation will become unstable due to the influence of the pressing operation.

[0086] However, in the input device 100, the control device 170 executes the series of processes shown in FIG. 8, and thereby the output value of the detection value of the horizontal operation is not updated while a pressing operation is being performed by the operating member 150, as shown in FIG. 9, thereby making it possible to keep the output value constant.

[0087] Furthermore, in the input device 100, when the detection value suddenly changes just before the switch unit (SW) is turned on, as shown in FIG. 9, the control device 170 executes the series of processes shown in FIG. 8, so that the output value of the detection value of the horizontal operation can be updated to the detection value X before the sudden change.

[0088] Furthermore, by having the control device 170 execute the series of processes shown in FIG. 8, the input device 100 can maintain the output value of the detection value of the horizontal operation constant continuously for a predetermined period of time when the switch unit (SW) is switched on and the output value of the detection value of the horizontal operation is maintained constant, as shown in FIG. 9, after the switch unit (SW) is switched off.

[0089] In addition, by the control device 170 executing the series of processes shown in FIG. 8, the input device 100 can correct the output value of the detection value of the horizontal operation multiple times and gradually return it to the actual detection value after a predetermined time has elapsed since the switch unit (SW) was turned off, as shown in FIG. 9.

[0090] As described above, in the input device 100 according to one embodiment, the control device 170 executes the series of processes shown in FIG. 8, so that the output value of the load detection value is not updated while the pressing operation of the operating member 150 is detected by the switch unit.

[0091] As a result, when a horizontal operation and a pressing operation are performed simultaneously with the operating member 150, the input device 100 according to one embodiment can keep the output value of the detection value of the horizontal operation constant even if the detection value of the horizontal operation (i.e., the detection value of the horizontal load applied to the operating axis 142) becomes unstable due to the influence of the pressing operation. Therefore, the input device 100 according to one embodiment can prevent the output value of the detection value of the horizontal operation from becoming unstable against the operator's intention.

[0092] In addition, in the input device 100 according to one embodiment, the control device 170 executes the series of processes shown in FIG. 8, so that the output value of the detection value of the horizontal load is not updated for a certain period of time after the switch unit stops detecting a pressing operation.

[0093] As a result, the input device 100 according to an embodiment can keep the output value of the detection value of the horizontal operation constant even if the pressing operation is unintentionally switched off instantaneously during the pressing operation by the operator. Therefore, the input device 100 according to an embodiment can prevent the output value of the detection value of the horizontal operation from becoming unstable against the operator's intention.

[0094] Furthermore, in the input device 100 according to one embodiment, the control device 170 executes a series of processes shown in FIG. 8 so that after stopping updating of the output value of the horizontal load detection value, the control device 170 outputs a moving average value of the horizontal load detection value as the output value of the horizontal load detection value for a certain period of time after resuming updating of the output value of the horizontal load detection value, and outputs the horizontal load detection value as the output value of the horizontal load detection value after a certain period of time has elapsed since resuming updating of the output value of the horizontal load detection value.

[0095] As a result, the input device 100 of one embodiment can gradually return the output value of the detection value of the horizontal operation, which was constant during the pressing operation, to the detection value of the horizontal load after the pressing operation, thereby suppressing sudden changes in the output value of the detection value of the horizontal operation.

[0096] In addition, in the input device 100 according to one embodiment, the control device 170 executes a series of processes shown in FIG. 8, gradually changing the first coefficient and the second coefficient, and calculating a moving average multiple times using a value obtained by multiplying the detection value of the horizontal load by the first coefficient and a value obtained by multiplying the output value of the detection value of the horizontal load by the second coefficient.

[0097] As a result, the input device 100 of one embodiment can more gradually return the output value of the detection value of the horizontal operation, which was constant during the pressing operation, to the detection value of the horizontal load after the pressing operation, thereby further suppressing sudden changes in the output value of the detection value of the horizontal operation.

[0098] In addition, in the input device 100 according to one embodiment, when a pressing operation is detected by the switch section and the detection value of the horizontal load suddenly changes, the control device 170 executes a series of processes shown in FIG. 8, so that the detection value of the horizontal load before the sudden change is used as the output value of the detection value of the horizontal load to be output during the period in which the output value of the detection value of the horizontal load is not updated.

[0099] As a result, the input device 100 according to one embodiment can output a constant detection value of the horizontal operation before the sudden change during the pressing operation, even if the detection value of the horizontal load suddenly changes unintentionally due to the influence of the pressing operation by the operator when the operator performs a pressing operation. Therefore, the input device 100 according to one embodiment can prevent the output value of the detection value of the horizontal operation from becoming unstable against the operator's intention.

[0100] (Third example of output control process for the control device 170) FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a third example of the output control process by the control device 170 included in the input device 100 according to an embodiment.

[0101] The meanings of the various values ​​used in the output control process shown in FIG. 10 are as follows: Variable SW_Status: Value indicating the switch status Detected value X: Detected value of the load in the X-axis direction applied to the operating axis 142 by the strain sensor 132 Detected value Y: Detected value of the load in the Y-axis direction applied to the operating shaft 142 by the strain sensor 132 Output value Xvalue: Output value of the load in the X-axis direction applied to the operating axis 142 Output value Yvalue: Output value of the load in the Y-axis direction applied to the operating axis 142 First threshold TH1: Threshold of detection values ​​X and Y for determining whether or not to disable the switch section

[0102] First, the control device 170 updates the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue to the detection value X and the detection value Y (step S1001). Next, the control device 170 determines whether the switch unit (SW) is on or not (step S1002).

[0103] In step S1002, if it is determined that the switch unit (SW) is off (step S1002: No), the control device 170 sets the variable SW_Status to "OFF" (step S1005) and outputs the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue (step S1007). After that, the control device 170 ends the series of processes shown in FIG.

[0104] If it is determined in step S1002 that the switch unit (SW) is on (step S1002: Yes), the control device 170 determines whether the absolute value of the detection value X is greater than a first threshold value TH1 (step S1003).

[0105] In step S1003, if it is determined that the absolute value of the detection value X is greater than the first threshold value TH1 (step S1003: Yes), the control device 170 sets the variable SW_Status to "OFF" (step S1005) and outputs the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue (step S1007). After that, the control device 170 ends the series of processes shown in FIG.

[0106] In step S1003, if it is determined that the absolute value of the detection value X is equal to or less than the first threshold value TH1 (step S1003: No), it is determined whether or not the absolute value of the detection value Y is greater than the first threshold value TH1 (step S1004). In step S1004, if it is determined that the absolute value of the detection value Y is greater than the first threshold value TH1 (step S1004: Yes), the control device 170 sets the variable SW_Status to "OFF" (step S1005) and outputs the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue (step S1007). After that, the control device 170 ends the series of processes shown in FIG. 10.

[0107] If it is determined in step S1003 that the absolute value of the detection value X is equal to or less than the first threshold value TH1 (step S1003: No) and, in step S1004, that the absolute value of the detection value Y is equal to or less than the first threshold value TH1 (step S1004: No), the control device 170 sets the variable SW_Status to "ON" (step S1006) and outputs the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue (step S1007). After that, the control device 170 ends the series of processes shown in FIG.

[0108] In the input device 100 according to one embodiment, the control device 170 executes a series of processes shown in FIG. 10 to invalidate the operation of the switch unit when the detected value of the horizontal load is greater than a predetermined first threshold value TH1.

[0109] As a result, in the input device 100 of one embodiment, when excessive load is applied horizontally to the operating axis 142 due to horizontal operation, even if a pressing operation is performed to press the switch section against the operator's intention, the pressing operation can be invalidated.

[0110] (Fourth example of output control process for the control device 170) FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a fourth example of the output control process by the control device 170 included in the input device 100 according to an embodiment.

[0111] The meanings of the various values ​​used in the output control process shown in FIG. 11 are as follows: Variable SW_Status: Value indicating the switch status Detected value X: Detected value of the load in the X-axis direction applied to the operating axis 142 by the strain sensor 132 Detected value Y: Detected value of the load in the Y-axis direction applied to the operating shaft 142 by the strain sensor 132 Output value Xvalue: Output value of the load in the X-axis direction applied to the operating axis 142 Output value Yvalue: Output value of the load in the Y-axis direction applied to the operating axis 142 Second threshold TH2: A threshold value of the detection values ​​X and Y for determining whether or not to invalidate the detection value of the horizontal load. However, the second threshold TH2 is smaller than the first threshold TH1.

[0112] First, the control device 170 determines whether the absolute value of the detection value X is smaller than the second threshold value TH2 (step S1101).

[0113] In step S1101, if it is determined that the absolute value of the detection value X is smaller than the second threshold value TH2 (step S1101: Yes), the control device 170 determines whether the absolute value of the detection value Y is smaller than the second threshold value TH2 (step S1102).

[0114] In step S1102, if it is determined that the absolute value of the detection value Y is smaller than the second threshold value TH2 (step S1102: Yes), the control device 170 sets each of the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue to "0" (step S1103). Then, the control device 170 determines whether the switch unit (SW) is on (step S1104).

[0115] In step S1104, if it is determined that the switch unit (SW) is off (step S1104: No), the control device 170 sets the variable SW_Status to "OFF" (step S1107) and outputs the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue (step S1108). After that, the control device 170 ends the series of processes shown in FIG.

[0116] In step S1104, if it is determined that the switch unit (SW) is on (step S1104: Yes), the control device 170 sets the variable SW_Status to "ON" (step S1105) and outputs the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue (step S1108). After that, the control device 170 ends the series of processes shown in FIG.

[0117] In step S1101, if it is determined that the absolute value of the detection value X is equal to or greater than the second threshold value TH2 (step S1101: No), or in step S1102, if it is determined that the absolute value of the detection value Y is equal to or greater than the second threshold value TH2 (step S1102: No), the control device 170 updates the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue to the detection value X and the detection value Y (step S1106). Then, the control device 170 sets the variable SW_Status to "OFF" (step S1107), and outputs the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue (step S1108). After that, the control device 170 ends the series of processes shown in FIG. 11.

[0118] In one embodiment of the input device 100, the control device 170 executes a series of processes shown in FIG. 11 to invalidate (set to "0") the detection value of the horizontal load when the detection value of the horizontal load is smaller than a predetermined second threshold TH2 which is smaller than a predetermined first threshold TH1.

[0119] As a result, the input device 100 according to an embodiment can invalidate the detection value of a slight horizontal load by regarding it as a load contrary to the operator's intention.

[0120] (Fifth example of output control process for the control device 170) FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a fifth example of the output control process by the control device 170 included in the input device 100 according to an embodiment.

[0121] The flowchart shown in FIG. 12 differs from the flowchart shown in FIG. 11 in that step S1104 is executed before step S1103 and step S1106, but is otherwise the same as the flowchart shown in FIG.

[0122] That is, in the flow chart shown in FIG. 12, after it is determined in step S1104 that the switch unit (SW) is on (step S1104: Yes), the control device 170 sets each of the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue to "0" (step S1103). Also, when it is determined in step S1104 that the switch unit (SW) is off (step S1104: No), the control device 170 updates the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue to the detection value X and the detection value Y (step S1106). Then, the control device 170 sets the variable SW_Status to "OFF" (step S1107) and outputs the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue (step S1108). After that, the control device 170 ends the series of processes shown in FIG. 11.

[0123] In one embodiment of the input device 100, the control device 170 executes a series of processes shown in FIG. 12 to invalidate the detection value of the horizontal load (set it to "0") when the detection value of the horizontal load is smaller than a predetermined second threshold TH2 which is smaller than a predetermined first threshold TH1 and a pressing operation is detected by the switch unit.

[0124] As a result, in the input device 100 of one embodiment, when an operator performs a pressing operation, even if a slight horizontal load is applied to the operating axis 142 against the operator's intention, the input device 100 can invalidate the detection value of the horizontal load.

[0125] (Modification of output control process of the control device 170) Note that the input device 100 according to an embodiment may be configured to detect a load applied to the operating member 150 in a vertical direction (Z-axis direction) by the four strain sensors 132. When a load in the Z direction is applied, all the strain sensors 132 expand and their resistance values ​​increase. The control device 170 can detect the load in the Z direction based on the total resistance value of the strain sensors 132.

[0126] FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a modified example of the output control process by the control device 170 included in the input device 100 according to an embodiment.

[0127] The meanings of the various values ​​used in the output control process shown in FIG. 13 are as follows: Variable SW_Status: Value indicating the switch status Detected value X: Detected value of the load in the X-axis direction applied to the operating axis 142 by the strain sensor 132 Detected value Y: Detected value of the load in the Y-axis direction applied to the operating shaft 142 by the strain sensor 132 Detection value Z: detection value of the load in the Z-axis direction applied to the operating shaft 142 by the strain sensor 132 Output value Xvalue: Output value of the load in the X-axis direction applied to the operating axis 142 Output value Yvalue: Output value of the load in the Y-axis direction applied to the operating axis 142 First constant a: A constant to multiply the vertical load detection value Z. However, a is greater than 1. Second constant b: A constant to multiply the vertical load detection value Z. However, b is less than 1.

[0128] First, the control device 170 determines whether or not the absolute value of the detection value X is smaller than the first constant a times the detection value Z (step S1201).

[0129] In step S1201, if it is determined that the absolute value of detection value X is smaller than the first constant a times the detection value Z (step S1201: Yes), the control device 170 determines whether the absolute value of detection value Y is smaller than the first constant a times the detection value Z (step S1202).

[0130] In step S1202, if it is determined that the absolute value of detection value Y is smaller than the first constant a times the detection value Z (step S1202: Yes), the control device 170 determines whether the absolute value of detection value X is smaller than a second constant b times the detection value Z (step S1203).

[0131] In step S1203, if it is determined that the absolute value of detection value X is smaller than the second constant b times the detection value Z (step S1203: Yes), the control device 170 determines whether the absolute value of detection value Y is smaller than the second constant b times the detection value Z (step S1204).

[0132] In step S1204, if it is determined that the absolute value of the detection value Y is smaller than the second constant b times the detection value Z (step S1204: Yes), the control device 170 sets each of the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue to "0" (step S1205). Then, the control device 170 advances the process to step S1207. In other words, if both the detection value X and the detection value Y are smaller than the second constant b times the detection value Z, the control device 170 sets each of the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue to "0".

[0133] In step S1201, if it is determined that the absolute value of the detection value X is not smaller than the first constant a times the detection value Z (step S1201: No), or if it is determined that the absolute value of the detection value Y is not smaller than the first constant a times the detection value Z (step S1202: No), the control device 170 updates the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue to the detection value X and the detection value Y (step S1209). Then, the control device 170 sets the variable SW_Status to "OFF" (step S1210), and ends the series of processes shown in Fig. 13. In other words, if at least one of the detection value X or the detection value Y is larger than the first constant a times the detection value Z, the control device 170 regards the state of the switch unit as OFF.

[0134] If it is determined in step S1203 that the absolute value of detection value X is not smaller than the second constant b times detection value Z (step S1203: No), or if it is determined in step S1204 that the absolute value of detection value Y is not smaller than the second constant b times detection value Z (step S1204: No), control device 170 updates output value Xvalue and output value Yvalue to detection value X and detection value Y (step S1206). Then, control device 170 proceeds to the process of step S1207.

[0135] In step S1207, the control device 170 determines whether the switch unit (SW) is on or not (step S1207).

[0136] If it is determined in step S1207 that the switch unit (SW) is off (step S1207: No), the control device 170 sets the variable SW_Status to "OFF" (step S1210), and ends the series of processes shown in FIG.

[0137] If it is determined in step S1207 that the switch unit (SW) is on (step S1207: Yes), the control device 170 sets the variable SW_Status to "ON" (step S1208), and ends the series of processes shown in FIG.

[0138] In this way, the control device 170 may disable the operation of the switch section when the detected value of the horizontal load is greater than the first constant a times the detected value of the vertical load detected by the four strain sensors 132.

[0139] As a result, the input device 100 of one embodiment can disable detection of a vertical load (i.e., disable an unintentional pressing operation) even if a vertical load is applied to the operating member 150 against the operator's intention when the operator performs a horizontal operation.

[0140] Furthermore, the control device 170 may invalidate the detection value of the horizontal load when the detection value of the horizontal load is smaller than a second constant b times the detection value of the vertical load detected by the four strain sensors 132.

[0141] As a result, in the input device 100 of one embodiment, even if a slight horizontal load is applied to the operating axis 142 against the operator's intention when the operator performs a pressing operation, the input device 100 can invalidate the detection value of the horizontal load (i.e., invalidate the unintended horizontal operation).

[0142] (Sixth example of output control process for the control device 170) FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a sixth example of the output control process by the control device 170 included in the input device 100 according to an embodiment.

[0143] The meanings of the various values ​​used in the output control process shown in FIG. 14 are as follows: Output value Xvalue: Output value of the load in the X-axis direction applied to the operating axis 142 Output value Yvalue: Output value of the load in the Y-axis direction applied to the operating axis 142

[0144] First, the control device 170 determines whether the switch unit (SW) is on or not (step S1301).

[0145] In step S1301, if it is determined that the switch unit (SW) is on (step S1301: Yes), the control device 170 outputs the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue (step S1303). After that, the control device 170 ends the series of processes shown in FIG.

[0146] In step S1301, if it is determined that the switch unit (SW) is off (step S1301: No), the control device 170 executes the calibration process shown in Fig. 16 (step S1302). Then, the control device 170 outputs the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue (step S1303). After that, the control device 170 ends the series of processes shown in Fig. 14.

[0147] (Seventh example of output control process for the control device 170) FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a seventh example of the output control process by the control device 170 included in the input device 100 according to an embodiment.

[0148] The meanings of the various values ​​used in the output control process shown in FIG. 15 are as follows: Output value Xvalue: Output value of the load in the X-axis direction applied to the operating axis 142 Output value Yvalue: Output value of the load in the Y-axis direction applied to the operating axis 142 Variable Off_count: The duration after the switch (SW) is turned off Variable Ca_count: The period during which it is determined that no load is being applied to the operating shaft 142

[0149] First, the control device 170 determines whether the switch unit (SW) is on or not (step S1401).

[0150] In step S1401, if it is determined that the switch unit (SW) is on (step S1401: Yes), the control device 170 sets the variable Off_count to an initial value of "0" (step S1402), and sets the variable Ca_count to an initial value of "0" (step S1403). Then, the control device 170 outputs the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue (step S1407). After that, the control device 170 ends the series of processes shown in FIG. 15.

[0151] If it is determined in step S1401 that the switch unit (SW) is off (step S1401: No), the control device 170 determines whether the variable Off_count is less than a predetermined threshold value Th (step S1404).

[0152] In step S1404, if it is determined that the variable Off_count is less than the predetermined threshold value Th (step S1404: Yes), the control device 170 adds "1" to the variable Ca_count (step S1405). Then, the control device 170 outputs the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue (step S1407). After that, the control device 170 ends the series of processes shown in FIG. 15.

[0153] In step S1404, if it is determined that the variable Off_count is equal to or greater than the predetermined threshold Th (step S1404: No), the control device 170 executes the calibration process shown in Fig. 15 (step S1406). Then, the control device 170 outputs the output value Xvalue and the output value Yvalue (step S1407). After that, the control device 170 ends the series of processes shown in Fig. 15.

[0154] (Seventh example of output control process for the control device 170) FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a calibration process performed by the control device 170 included in the input device 100 according to an embodiment.

[0155] The meanings of the various values ​​used in the calibration process shown in FIG. 16 are as follows: Detected value X: Detected value of the load in the X-axis direction applied to the operating axis 142 by the strain sensor 132 Detected value Y: Detected value of the load in the Y-axis direction applied to the operating shaft 142 by the strain sensor 132 Third threshold Th3: A threshold value of the amount of fluctuation of the detection values ​​X and Y for determining whether the detection values ​​X and Y are fluctuating. Variable Ca_count: The period during which the detected values ​​X and Y are judged to be unchanged Threshold Th_Ca: Threshold of variable Ca_count for determining that detected values ​​X and Y have not changed for a certain period of time

[0156] First, the control device 170 determines whether the amount of change in the detection value X is smaller than a predetermined third threshold value Th3 (step S1501).

[0157] In step S1501, if it is determined that the amount of fluctuation in the detection value X is equal to or greater than the predetermined third threshold value Th3 (step S1501: No), the control device 170 sets the variable Ca_count to “0” (step S1505) and ends the series of processes shown in FIG. 16.

[0158] In step S1501, if it is determined that the amount of change in the detection value X is smaller than the predetermined third threshold value Th3 (step S1501: Yes), the control device 170 determines whether the amount of change in the detection value Y is smaller than the predetermined third threshold value Th3 (step S1502).

[0159] In step S1502, if it is determined that the amount of fluctuation in the detection value Y is equal to or greater than the predetermined third threshold value Th3 (step S1502: No), the control device 170 sets the variable Ca_count to “0” (step S1505) and terminates the series of processes shown in FIG. 16.

[0160] If it is determined in step S1502 that the amount of change in the detection value Y is smaller than the predetermined third threshold value Th3 (step S1502: Yes), the control device 170 determines whether the variable Ca_count is larger than a predetermined threshold value Th_Ca (step S1503).

[0161] In step S1503, if it is determined that the variable Ca_count is greater than the predetermined threshold value Th_Ca (step S1503: Yes), the control device 170 calibrates the detection value X output by the strain sensor 132 to "0" and also calibrates the detection value Y output by the strain sensor 132 to "0" (step S1504). Then, the control device 170 sets the variable Ca_count to "0" (step S1505) and ends the series of processes shown in FIG. 16.

[0162] If it is determined in step S1503 that the variable Ca_count is equal to or smaller than the predetermined threshold value Th_Ca (step S1503: No), the control device 170 adds "1" to the variable Ca_count (step S1506) and ends the series of processes shown in FIG.

[0163] In an input device 100 according to one embodiment, the control device 170 executes a series of processes shown in FIG. 16 together with a series of processes shown in FIG. 14 or 15, so that when a state in which no pressing operation is detected and the amount of change in the horizontal load is less than a predetermined third threshold (i.e., a state in which no horizontal operation is being performed) continues for a certain period of time, the output value of the horizontal load output by the strain sensor 132 is calibrated to 0.

[0164] As a result, the input device 100 of one embodiment can calibrate the output value of the horizontal load output by the strain sensor 132 to 0 at an appropriate timing when neither a pressing operation nor a horizontal operation is being performed, thereby improving the accuracy of the output value of the horizontal load output by the strain sensor 132.

[0165] (Modifications of the configuration of the input device 100) Fig. 17 is an external perspective view of an input device 100-2 according to a modified example of an embodiment. Fig. 18 is an exploded perspective view of an input device 100-2 according to a modified example of an embodiment, as viewed from above. Fig. 19 is a perspective cross-sectional view of an input device 100-2 according to a modified example of an embodiment.

[0166] 17 to 19 differs from the input device 100 in that it further includes a horizontal, flat fixing plate 180 below the substrate 110, and the base 141 of the strain body 140 is fixed to four pedestals 181 protruding from an upper surface 180A of the fixing plate 180 by four screws 161 that penetrate the base 141 in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction). Each of the four pedestals 181 has a cylindrical shape of a predetermined height.

[0167] In addition, in the input device 100-2 shown in FIGS. 17 to 19, the substrate 110 is disposed in a space 180B surrounded by four pedestals 181 and is fixed to the lower surface of the base 141 of the strain body 140 by screws, but is spaced apart from the upper surface 180A of the fixed plate 180, i.e., is not fixed to the fixed plate 180.

[0168] An input device 100-2 according to a modification of the embodiment is similar to the input device 100, except for the above differences. The input device 100-2 of this modification can detect a load in the vertical direction. With respect to detection of a load in the horizontal direction, the input device 100-2 acts in the same manner as the input device 100, and has the same effect as the input device 100.

[0169] Although one embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail above, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and various modifications and changes are possible within the scope of the gist of the present invention described in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0170] 100,100-2 Input device 110 Substrate 111 1st fixed contact 112 2nd fixed contact 120 Movable contact 121 Dome section 130 Flexible PCB 130A base 130B Drawer section 131 Central opening 132 Strain sensor (load sensor) 140 Strain body 141 Base 142 Operation axis 143 Recess 144 Through hole 150 Operating member 151 Operation section 152 Shaft 152A Pressing part 161 Screw 170 Control device (control unit) 180 Fixed plate 180A top 180B space 181 Pedestal

Claims

1. A strain body having an operating axis A load sensor for detecting a horizontal load applied to the operating shaft; an operating member that can be pressed and provided on an upper portion of the operating shaft; a switch unit that detects the pressing operation of the operating member; a control unit that outputs to an outside a detection value of the horizontal load by the load sensor and a detection value of the pressing operation by the switch unit; Equipped with The control unit is While the pressing operation is detected by the switch unit, the output value of the detection value of the horizontal load is not updated.

1. An input device comprising:

2. The control unit is The output value of the detection value of the horizontal load is not updated for a certain period of time after the switch unit has stopped detecting the pressing operation.

2. The input device according to claim 1 .

3. The control unit is After stopping updating the output value of the detection value of the horizontal load, a moving average value of the detection value of the horizontal load is output as the output value of the detection value of the horizontal load for a certain period of time after restarting updating the output value of the detection value of the horizontal load, and after a certain period of time has elapsed since restarting updating the output value of the detection value of the horizontal load, the detection value of the horizontal load is output as the output value of the detection value of the horizontal load.

2. The input device according to claim 1 .

4. The control unit is While gradually changing a first coefficient and a second coefficient, the moving average value is calculated a plurality of times using a value obtained by multiplying the detection value of the horizontal load by the first coefficient and a value obtained by multiplying an output value of the previous detection value of the horizontal load by the second coefficient.

4. The input device according to claim 3.

5. The control unit is When the pressing operation is detected by the switch unit, if the detection value of the horizontal load changes suddenly, an output value of the detection value of the horizontal load is output during a period in which the detection value of the horizontal load is not updated, and the detection value of the horizontal load before the sudden change is used as the output value of the detection value of the horizontal load.

2. The input device according to claim 1 .

6. A strain body having an operating axis A load sensor for detecting a horizontal load applied to the operating shaft; an operating member that can be pressed and provided on an upper portion of the operating shaft; a switch unit that detects the pressing operation of the operating member; a control unit that outputs to an outside a detection value of the horizontal load by the load sensor and a detection value of the pressing operation by the switch unit; Equipped with The control unit is When the detected value of the horizontal load is greater than a predetermined first threshold, the pressing operation is invalidated.

1. An input device comprising:

7. The control unit is When the detected value of the horizontal load is smaller than a predetermined second threshold value that is smaller than the predetermined first threshold value, the detected value of the horizontal load is invalidated.

7. The input device according to claim 6.

8. The control unit is When the detected value of the horizontal load is smaller than a predetermined second threshold value that is smaller than the predetermined first threshold value and the pressing operation is detected by the switch unit, the detected value of the horizontal load is invalidated.

7. The input device according to claim 6.

9. A strain body having an operating axis A load sensor for detecting a horizontal load applied to the operating shaft; an operating member that can be pressed and provided on an upper portion of the operating shaft; a switch unit that detects the pressing operation of the operating member; a control unit that outputs to an outside a detection value of the horizontal load by the load sensor and a detection value of the pressing operation by the switch unit; Equipped with The switch unit is Detecting a vertical load applied to the operating member; The control unit is When the detected value of the load in the horizontal direction is greater than a first constant multiple of the detected value of the load in the vertical direction, the pressing operation is invalidated; The first constant is greater than 1.

1. An input device comprising:

10. The control unit is When the detected value of the load in the horizontal direction is smaller than a second constant multiple of the detected value of the load in the vertical direction, the detected value of the load in the horizontal direction is invalidated; The second constant is less than 1.

10. The input device according to claim 9.

11. A strain body having an operating axis A load sensor for detecting a horizontal load applied to the operating shaft; an operating member that can be pressed and provided on an upper portion of the operating shaft; a switch unit that detects the pressing operation of the operating member; a control unit that outputs to an outside a detection value of the horizontal load by the load sensor and a detection value of the pressing operation by the switch unit; Equipped with The control unit is When the pressing operation is not detected and the fluctuation amount of the horizontal load is less than a predetermined third threshold value for a certain period of time, the horizontal load output by the load sensor is calibrated to 0.

1. An input device comprising:

12. The operating member is A shaft portion that penetrates the strain generating body, The load sensor includes: a flexible substrate fixed to a lower surface of the strain generating body, the flexible substrate being provided with a horizontal load applied to the operation shaft by detecting a strain generated in the strain generating body when the operation member is operated horizontally; The switch unit is The pressure sensor is provided below the strain generating body, and when the pressing operation is performed by the operating member, the pressure sensor is pressed by the shaft portion of the operating member to detect the pressing operation by the operating member.

2. The input device according to claim 1 .

13. The switch unit is a movable contact having an elastically deformable dome-shaped portion; a fixed contact provided below the movable contact; Equipped with When the dome portion is pressed by the operating member, the dome portion reverses and comes into contact with the fixed contact, whereby the pressing operation by the operating member is detected.

13. The input device according to claim 12.

14. The movable contact is a metal plate having the dome portion, and the reversing action generates a clicking sensation.

14. The input device according to claim 13.

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