Switch device

Abstract

To ensure that a failure in one detection element does not affect the detection of switch operation.SOLUTION: A switch device 1 has a magnet 10 that is displaced in the direction of an axis X in conjunction with the operation of an operated part 51, and a plurality of magnetic sensors 7 (7A, 7B, 7C) that are surface mounted on a printed circuit board 35. In the switch device 1, the displacement of the magnet 10 in the axial X direction is detected by the plurality of magnetic sensors 7 (7A, 7B, 7C).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical field]

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

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a switch for a vehicle. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2009-193690 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The vehicle switch of Patent Document 1 has an actuator that moves forward and backward in response to the operation of the brake pedal. A magnet is attached to the actuator. The magnet is displaced in the direction of the actuator's forward and backward movement in response to the operation of the brake pedal. The vehicle switch has one detection element disposed opposite the magnet. The detection element detects whether the vehicle switch is on or off based on changes in magnetism when the magnet moves back and forth.

[0005] In this type of vehicle switch, if a problem occurs in the detection element, it will affect the detection of the on / off operation of the switch. Therefore, it is required to prevent the detection of the switch operation from being affected even if a problem occurs in the detection element. In response to such requirements, it is conceivable that multiple detection elements could be provided redundantly in correspondence with one magnet, thereby allowing the switch operation detection to continue even when a malfunction occurs in one of the detection elements, or that the occurrence of a malfunction could be detected based on the output of each of the multiple detection elements. However, when using a detector with a main body at one end of a rod-shaped terminal to make such a detector redundant, if the detector is fixed to the board by inserting the other end of the terminal into a through-hole on the board, (a) the main body will be located away from the board, raising the center of gravity of the detector and making it prone to tilting, and (b) when mounting the detector on the board, if the detector comes into contact with the worker's fingers or a mounting probe, the detector may be mounted tilted. In addition, there may be cases where the height of the detection elements varies due to variations in the fixing points between the terminals and the through holes, etc. If some of the multiple detection elements are tilted or have variations in installation height, there is a risk that the part of the detection elements themselves may generate an unexpected output signal even if there is no abnormality, which may affect the continuation of switch operation and the detection of a problem.

[0006] Therefore, it is required to suppress the adverse effects caused by the positional variations of the multiple redundantly provided detection elements while suppressing the increase in costs. In addition to such requirements, another objective of the present invention is to achieve actions and effects derived from the configurations disclosed in the "Form for implementing the invention" described below, which actions and effects cannot be obtained with conventional technologies. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides a magnet that is displaced in a first axial direction in response to an operation of an operated portion; a plurality of sensing elements surface-mounted on a single substrate or on a plurality of substrates on the same plane; The switch device is configured to detect the displacement of the magnet in the first axial direction by the plurality of detection elements. Effect of the Invention

[0008] According to the present invention, even if a problem occurs in one detection element, it is possible to prevent the detection of switch operation from being affected. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a switch device. [Diagram 2] FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. [Diagram 5] 11A and 11B are diagrams for explaining the arrangement of magnets according to switch operations. [Figure 6] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating the arrangement of magnetic sensors. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an output of a magnetic sensor. [Figure 8] 11 is a diagram for explaining the setting of the magnetic sensor group P in the obstruction determination process. FIG. [Figure 9] 13A and 13B are diagrams illustrating the arrangement of magnetic sensors on a printed circuit board according to a modified example. [Figure 10] 13A and 13B are diagrams illustrating the arrangement of magnetic sensors according to another modified example. [Figure 11] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating the arrangement of a magnetic sensor according to a comparative example. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described taking as an example a switch device 1 used to specify a driving mode of a vehicle. FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the switch device 1. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the switch device 1. FIG. 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the switch 5A portion of the switch device 1, cut at plane A in FIG. 1. In the following description, for convenience of explanation, the positional relationship of each component will be described based on the vertical direction in FIG. 2. For example, when "upper side" is described, it means the upper side in the vertical direction in FIG. 2. Therefore, depending on the usage state of the switch device 1, even if it is described as "a part located on the upper side", it may be located diagonally above or below.

[0011] As shown in FIG. 1, the switch device 1 includes a total of four switches 5 (5A to 5D). An operated portion 51 of each switch 5 (5A to 5D) is exposed at the top of the case 2. A different function is assigned to each of the switches 5 (5A to 5D). As an example, if the switch device 1 is a switch device used to specify the driving mode of a vehicle, functions such as parking (P), reverse driving (R), neutral (N), and forward driving (D) are assigned to each of the switches 5A to 5D. In the switch device 1, when any one of the switches 5A to 5D is pressed, the function assigned to the pressed switch 5 is designated, and the designation of the function that had been designated up to that point is terminated.

[0012] The switches 5A, 5B, 5C, and 5D have the same basic configuration. In the following, the configuration of the switch 5A will be described as a representative of the switches 5A, 5B, 5C, and 5D. 2, the cover 3 that closes the lower opening of the case 2 has a bottom wall portion 31 and a peripheral wall portion 32. The peripheral wall portion 32 surrounds the outer periphery of the bottom wall portion 31 over the entire periphery. The cover 3 is attached to the case 2 with screws (not shown) in a state in which the peripheral wall portion 32 is fitted into the lower opening of the case 2 .

[0013] A support base 33 for a printed circuit board 35 is provided inside the peripheral wall portion 32. The printed circuit board 35 is placed on the upper end of the support base 33. A rubber member 9 made of an elastic material is placed on the printed circuit board 35. The movable body 6 is placed on a mounting portion 92 of the rubber member 9, which will be described later.

[0014] The switch 5A has an operated portion 51 that is operated by the user. The operated portion 51 has a pressed portion 510, a peripheral wall portion 511, and a connecting portion 512. The peripheral wall portion 511 is a cylindrical portion that surrounds the entire outer periphery of the pressed portion 510. The connecting portion 512 extends inside the peripheral wall portion 511 in the same direction as the peripheral wall portion 511. The tip side of the connecting portion 512 is inserted inside the peripheral wall portion 21 on the case 2 side.

[0015] The peripheral wall portion 21 is a cylindrical portion surrounding the through hole 20 on the side of the case 2. The through hole 20 opens above the area of ​​the case 2 in which the switches 5 (5A to 5D) are provided. The peripheral wall 21 extends linearly upward on the opposite side to the printed circuit board 35. In the case 2, the peripheral wall 511 of the operated part 51 is fitted onto the outside of the peripheral wall 21. Furthermore, in the case 2, the cylindrical wall 61 of the movable body 6 penetrates the inside of the peripheral wall 21 in the direction of the axis X. Here, the axis X is a straight line that is perpendicular to the surface 35a of the printed circuit board 35 and passes through the center of the pressed part 510. Furthermore, the axis X is a straight line that runs along the displacement direction of the movable body 6 when the operated part 51 is pressed.

[0016] The movable body 6 is supported by the peripheral wall portion 21 on the case 2 side so as to be movable in the direction of the axis X. In the movable body 6, the connecting portion 512 of the operated portion 51 is inserted into the inside of the cylindrical wall portion 61. An engagement hole 512a is provided on the tip side of the connecting portion 512. A protrusion 615 engages with the engagement hole 512a. The protrusion 615 protrudes inward (toward the axis X) from the inner periphery of the cylindrical wall portion 61. In this embodiment, the protrusion 615 on the movable body 6 side engages with the engagement hole 512a, thereby connecting the operated portion 51 and the movable body 6. This allows the movable body 6 to be displaced in the direction of the axis X in conjunction with the pressing operation of the operated portion 51.

[0017] The cylindrical wall portion 61 of the movable body 6 is provided with contact portions 62, 62 at a lower portion on the opposite side to the operated portion 51 in the direction of the axis X. The contact portions 62, 62 bulge outward from the outer periphery of the cylindrical wall portion 61 in directions away from each other. The contact portions 62, 62 are placed on the placement portion 92 of the rubber member 9.

[0018] The rubber member 9 has a base portion 91 and a mounting portion 92. The rubber member 9 is an integral part formed of a flexible elastic material such as rubber. The base portion 91 is a portion that is placed on the printed circuit board 35. The placement portion 92 is a portion that supports the movable body 6 so that the movable body 6 is displaceable in the direction of the axis X (the up-down direction in the figure). In the rubber member 9, a pair of mounting portions 92, 92 is assigned to one switch.

[0019] When an operating force toward the printed circuit board 35 is input to the movable body 6, the mounting portion 92 is displaced in a direction approaching the printed circuit board 35 while deforming the support wall portion 922. The mounting portion 92 is displaced toward the printed circuit board 35 until the stopper portion 923 comes into contact with the printed circuit board 35. When the operating force acting on the movable body 6 is released, the mounting portion 92 is displaced in a direction away from the printed circuit board 35 by the restoring force of the support wall portion 922 . The support wall portion 922 applies a biasing force to the movable body 6 in a direction that returns the movable body 6 placed on the placement portion 92 to its initial position before displacement.

[0020] In this embodiment, the movable body 6, which displaces in the direction of the axis X in response to the operation of the operated part 51, is placed on the mounting parts 92, 92, so that the user can feel the operation sensation (reaction force) when pressing the operated part 51.

[0021] Fig. 3 is a cross-sectional view of the switch device 1. Fig. 4 is a diagram illustrating a magnet 10. Fig. 5 is a diagram illustrating the arrangement of the magnet 10 in the switch 5A. Fig. 6 is a diagram illustrating the arrangement of the magnetic sensors 7 (7A to 7C). Fig. 7 is a diagram illustrating the output of the magnetic sensor 7. Fig. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of switch 5A taken along line AA in Fig. 2. Fig. 4 is a schematic enlarged view of magnet 10 in Fig. 3 with magnetic field lines superimposed thereon.

[0022] Fig. 5(A) is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which no operating force is acting on the operated portion 51 and the magnet 10 of the movable body 6 is located at the initial position Pa. Fig. 5(B) is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which an operating force is acting on the operated portion 51 and the magnet 10 of the movable body 6 is located at an intermediate position Pb on the way from the initial position Pa to the operating position Pc. Fig. 5(C) is a cross-sectional view showing a state in which an operating force is acting on the operated portion 51 and the magnet 10 of the movable body 6 is located at the operating position Pc. Fig. 6A is a cross section taken along line AA in Fig. 3, and corresponds to a view of the printed circuit board 35 seen from above. Fig. 6B is a schematic diagram showing a cross section taken along line AA in Fig. 6A. Fig. 7(A) is a diagram showing the output change of the magnetic sensor 7 when the operated portion 51 is pressed down, in which the magnetic sensor 7 outputs the amount of the downward magnetic force in Fig. 4 as a positive voltage value. Fig. 7(B) is a diagram showing the output change of the magnetic sensor 7 when the operated portion 51 is pressed down, in which the magnetic sensor 7 outputs the amount of the upward magnetic force in Fig. 4 as a positive voltage value.

[0023] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 6, in this embodiment, a pressing operation of an operated portion 51 is detected by a magnet 10 provided on the movable body 6 and magnetic sensors 7 (7A, 7B, 7C) on a printed circuit board 35. As shown in Fig. 3, the movable body 6 is provided with a holder 612 for the magnet 10. In the movable body 6, the cylindrical holder 612 is provided at the lower part of the cylindrical wall portion 61. The holder 612 is provided across the cylindrical wall portion 61 in the radial direction of the axis X (left and right direction in the figure). The holder 612 is provided with an opening facing in the direction perpendicular to the axis X (direction along the surface 35a of the printed circuit board 35). The magnet 10 supported by the yoke 11 is fitted and attached to the holder 612.

[0024] 4, magnet 10 is a rod-shaped magnet with its north and south poles aligned in series in a direction perpendicular to axis X (first axis). As an example, magnet 10 is produced by unidirectional magnetization using Helmholtz coils. In this embodiment, the magnet 10 is supported by the holder 612 in a state where it is sandwiched between a band-shaped yoke 11. The yoke 11 is made of a magnetic material such as iron. The yoke 11 has a first yoke portion 111 covering one side surface 10c of the magnet 10 in the X-axis direction, and a second yoke portion 112 covering the other side surface 10d of the magnet 10 in the X-axis direction. The first yoke portion 111 and the second yoke portion 112 entirely cover the side surfaces 10c, 10d of the magnet 10. The ends of the first yoke portion 111 and the second yoke portion 112 on the S pole side (left side in the figure) are connected by a third yoke portion 113. The side surface 10b on the S pole side of the magnet 10 is covered by the third yoke portion 113.

[0025] In this embodiment, the magnet 10 is supported by the yoke 11 in the following procedure: (a) The magnet 10 is placed on the yoke 11 so that the side 10a on the N pole side of the magnet 10 is approximately flush with one end 11a of the band-shaped yoke 11. (b) The yoke 11 is bent so as to encase the magnet 10. (c) One end 11a and the other end 11b of the yoke 11 are made flush with the side 10a on the N pole side of the magnet 10. As a result, the magnet 10 is supported by the yoke 11 with the side surface 10b on the S pole side being covered by the yoke 11. As shown in Fig. 3, when the yoke 11 is attached to the holding portion 612 on the movable body 6 side, the magnet 10 is arranged with the N pole and S pole aligned in a direction perpendicular to the axis X (left-right direction in the figure). Furthermore, as shown in Fig. 4, the magnet 10 is arranged with the S pole facing the axis X side (left side in the figure) and the N pole facing the opposite side to the axis X (right side in the figure). Note that the magnet 10 may also be arranged with the N pole facing the axis X side (left side in the figure) and the S pole facing the opposite side to the axis X (right side in the figure).

[0026] As shown in Figure 4, in this state, magnetic field lines L flowing from the N pole to the right side in the figure (opposite the S pole) split into magnetic field lines L flowing toward the first yoke part 111 on one side and magnetic field lines L flowing toward the second yoke part 112 on the other side, and then pass through yoke 11 to reach the S pole. Since the yokes (first yoke portion 111, second yoke portion 112) are located on both sides of the N pole in the direction of axis X, the directions of the magnetic field lines L differ on the sides of the N pole, with the boundary being approximately at the center of the magnet 10 in the direction of axis X. For example, if a center line C is defined as passing through the midpoint of magnet 10 in the direction of axis X, then above center line C, magnetic field lines L point upward, and below center line C, magnetic field lines L point downward.

[0027] In switch 5A, when the operated portion 51 is operated, the magnet 10 displaces from the initial position Pa shown in FIG. 5(A) to the intermediate position Pb shown in FIG. 5(B) and then to the operating position Pc shown in FIG. 5(C). Accordingly, the amount of magnetic force detected by the magnetic sensors 7 (7A to 7C) on the printed circuit board 35 changes according to the positional relationship between the magnetic sensors 7 (7A to 7C) and the magnet 10. In this embodiment, a sensor that outputs a voltage value according to the detected amount of magnetic force is used as the magnetic sensor 7, and the operation of the operated part 51 can be detected from the change in the output voltage of the magnetic sensor 7.

[0028] The magnetic sensor 7 used in this embodiment is an element that detects a change in the magnetic force of the magnet 10 due to the displacement of the movable body 6. As an example, the magnetic sensors 7 (7A to 7C) are Hall ICs (detection elements). The magnetic sensor 7 and the printed circuit board 35 on which the magnetic sensor 7 is surface-mounted are provided at positions overlapping the displacement range of the magnet 10 when viewed from the radial direction of the axis X. The multiple magnetic sensors 7 (7A, 7B, 7C) are arranged with their positions aligned in the direction of the axis X. As shown in FIG. 6, three magnetic sensors 7 (7A to 7C) are provided for one magnet 10. In this embodiment, each of the four switches 5 (5A to 5D) has one magnet 10. Therefore, three magnetic sensors 7 (7A to 7C) are provided for each of the switches 5 (5A to 5D). Each of the magnetic sensors 7 (7A to 7C) has a detection surface 7a positioned on a straight line L35 parallel to one surface 35a and the other surface 35b in the thickness direction of the printed circuit board 35 (see FIG. 3). Here, the surfaces (surfaces 35a, 35B) of the printed circuit board 35 are also surfaces perpendicular to the axis X along the displacement direction of the magnet 10.

[0029] 6A, a recess 36 is provided in the printed circuit board 35. The recess 36 is formed by cutting out a part of the printed circuit board 35. When viewed from above, the recess 36 is defined by a first side edge 361, a second side edge 362, and a third side edge 363. The recess 36 is formed in a substantially rectangular shape. The first side edge 361 and the second side edge 362 are parallel to each other. The first side edge 361 and the second side edge 362 are perpendicular to the side edge 351 of the printed circuit board 35. The ends of the first side edge 361 and the second side edge 362 are connected to each other at a third side edge 363. The third side edge 363 is parallel to the side edge 351 of the printed circuit board 35. The recess 36 is formed to a size that allows the holding portion 612 on the movable body 6 side to pass through.

[0030] As shown in (A) and (B) of FIG. 6, the magnetic sensors 7 (7A, 7B, 7C) are arranged on the printed circuit board 35 on the side of the N pole of the magnet 10. The magnetic sensor 7A faces the N pole of the magnet 10 near the first side edge 361 with a distance W7 therebetween. The magnetic sensor 7B faces the N pole of the magnet 10 near the second side edge 362 with a distance W7 therebetween. The magnetic sensors 7A and 7B are disposed symmetrically across a center line C36 in the width direction of the recess 36. The magnetic sensors 7A and 7B each face the N pole of the magnet 10 in a direction perpendicular to the center line C36 (the up-down direction in the figure). The magnetic sensor 7C faces the N pole of the magnet 10 near the third side edge 363 with a distance W7 therebetween. The magnetic sensor 7C is provided in a range that crosses the center line C36 in the width direction (up and down direction in the figure) of the recess 36. The magnetic sensor 7C faces the N pole of the magnet 10 in the direction of the center line C36 (left and right direction in the figure).

[0031] In this embodiment, the magnetic sensors 7A and 7B are sensors that output the amount of the upward magnetic force as a positive voltage value (positive value). The magnetic sensor 7C is a sensor that outputs the amount of the downward magnetic force as a positive voltage value (positive value).

[0032] 6A, an MCU 39 serving as a control device is mounted on a printed circuit board 35. Each of the magnetic sensors 7 (7A, 7B, 7C) is connected to terminals 39a, 39b, 39c of the MCU 39 via wiring 37 (37a, 37b, 37c) on the printed circuit board 35. Although not shown in FIG. 6A, other terminals of the MCU 39 are connected to wires extending from the magnetic sensors 7 (7A, 7B, 7C) of the other switches 5B, 5C, 5D. The MCU 39 receives the output voltages (output signals) of the magnetic sensors 7 (7A, 7B, 7C) of the switches 5 (5A to 5D).

[0033] The MCU 39 performs a process (operation determination process) to determine whether or not each switch 5 (5A to 5D) is operated based on the output voltage of the magnetic sensor 7 (7A, 7B, 7C) of each switch 5 (5A to 5D). Furthermore, the MCU 39 performs a process (problem determination process) to determine whether or not there is a problem with the magnetic sensor 7 (7A, 7B, 7C) based on the output signal of the magnetic sensor 7 (7A, 7B, 7C).

[0034] As described above, in the switch device 1 of this embodiment, when the operated portion 51 is pressed, the magnet 10 attached to the movable body 6 is displaced downward toward the printed circuit board 35 along the axis X. In the switch device 1, the magnetic force component in the direction perpendicular to the printed circuit board 35 (axis X) changes according to a change in the relative positional relationship between the magnet 10 and the magnetic sensors 7 (7A to 7C) that accompanies the displacement of the magnet 10. The magnetic sensors 7 (7A to 7C) detect magnetic force components in a direction (axis X direction) perpendicular to the printed circuit board 35, and output, for example, a voltage value determined according to the magnitude of the detected magnetic force. Note that the magnetic sensors 7 (7A to 7C) may be latching Hall sensor ICs that output digital signals according to the magnitude of the detected magnetic force. In the switch device 1, the presence or absence of switch operation is determined based on a change in output voltage of the magnetic sensors 7 (7A to 7C). Specifically, the output voltage of the magnetic sensors 7 (7A to 7C) is input to the MCU 39, and the MCU 39 processes the output voltage to determine whether or not a switch has been operated.

[0035] Here, the change in output voltage of the magnetic sensor 7 (7A to 7C) associated with the pressing operation of the operated portion 51 will be described using the magnetic sensor 7C as an example.

[0036] As shown in FIG. 3, when the operated portion 51 is pressed downward toward the printed circuit board 35, the magnet 10 displaces from the initial position Pa shown in FIG. 5(A), through the intermediate position Pb shown in FIG. 5(B), toward the downward direction toward the printed circuit board 35, and finally reaches the operating position Pc shown in FIG. 5(B). Then, as the magnet 10 is displaced from the initial position Pa to the operation position Pc, the relative positional relationship between the magnet 10 and the magnetic sensor 7 changes, and the amount of magnetic force detected by the magnetic sensor 7 changes.

[0037] When the magnet 10 is in the initial position Pa, the magnetic sensor 7C detects a downward magnetic force. When the magnet 10 is displaced from the initial position Pa toward the operation position Pc, the amount of magnetic force detected by the magnetic sensor 7C decreases in proportion to the amount of displacement. Then, at the timing when the magnet 10 crosses the center line C (middle position Pb in FIG. 5B), the direction of the detected magnetic force reverses from downward to upward. Then, thereafter, the amount of the detected upward magnetic force increases in proportion to the amount of operation.

[0038] Here, the magnetic sensor 7C outputs the amount of downward magnetic force, for example, as a positive voltage value (positive value). Therefore, as shown in Fig. 7A, the output voltage of the magnetic sensor 7C decreases as the amount of operation in the direction in which the operated unit 51 is pressed down increases. In other words, the output voltage of the magnetic sensor 7C decreases as the magnet 10 moves from the initial position Pa (see Fig. 5A) toward the operation position Pc (see Fig. 5C).

[0039] Then, at the timing when the center line C intersects with the magnetic sensor 7C (FIG. 5B: intermediate position Pb), the output voltage becomes zero (=V0) and continues to decrease thereafter. As an example, in the case of the magnetic sensor 7C of this embodiment, when the output voltage of the magnetic sensor 7C becomes zero (=V0), the MCU 39, which is a control device included in the switch device 1, determines that the switch 5A has been turned on.

[0040] On the other hand, the magnetic sensors 7A and 7B output the amount of upward magnetic force as a positive voltage value. Therefore, as shown in Fig. 5B, the output voltage of the magnetic sensor 7 increases as the amount of operation in the direction of pushing down the operated part 51 increases. In other words, the output voltage of the magnetic sensors 7A and 7B decreases as the magnet 10 moves from the initial position Pa (see Fig. 5A) to the operation position Pc (see Fig. 5B).

[0041] Then, at the timing where it intersects with the center line C (FIG. 5B: intermediate position Pb), the output voltage becomes zero (=V0), and thereafter the output voltage continues to increase. As an example, in the case of the magnetic sensors 7A and 7B of this embodiment, when the output voltage of the magnetic sensors 7A and 7B becomes zero (=V0), the MCU 39, which is a control device provided in the switch device 1, determines that the switch 5A has been turned on.

[0042] Here, the output voltages of the three magnetic sensors 7 (7A, 7B, 7C) are input to the MCU 39. In this embodiment, prior to the operation determination process, the MCU 39 performs a trouble determination process based on the output voltages of the magnetic sensors 7 (7A, 7B, 7C). Here, a "problem" in the magnetic sensor 7 (7A, 7B, 7C) refers not only to a simple failure of the magnetic sensor 7, but also to a problem in which the output signal (output voltage) of the magnetic sensor 7 input to the MCU 39 is not the expected output signal, such as a short circuit in the wiring 37 (37a, 37b, 37c) connecting the magnetic sensor 7 (7A, 7B, 7C) to the MCU 39 described below.

[0043] FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the setting of the magnetic sensor group P in the obstacle determination process. In the interference determination process, the MCU 39 sets a magnetic sensor group P (detection element group) consisting of a pair of magnetic sensors in the three magnetic sensors 7A, 7B, and 7C. In the case of FIG. 6, as an example, two sensor groups are set: a first sensor group P1 (detection element group) composed of magnetic sensor 7A and magnetic sensor 7C, and a second sensor group P2 (detection element group) composed of magnetic sensor 7B and magnetic sensor 7C.

[0044] The MCU 39 compares the output voltage of the magnetic sensor 7A and the output voltage of the magnetic sensor 7C included in the first sensor set P1, and also compares the output voltage of the magnetic sensor 7B and the output voltage of the magnetic sensor 7C included in the second sensor set P2. Here, the magnetic sensors 7A and 7C detect magnetic forces in opposite directions, and the magnetic sensors 7B and 7C detect magnetic forces in opposite directions. Therefore, when there is no problem with magnetic sensor 7A and magnetic sensor 7C, when the difference ΔV between the output voltage of magnetic sensor 7A and the output voltage of magnetic sensor 7C is calculated, the calculated difference ΔV will be a value close to zero (=0).

[0045] As an example, in this embodiment, if the calculated difference ΔV exceeds the threshold value Th (ΔV>Th), it is determined that a problem occurs in one of the magnetic sensors 7A and 7C. If the calculated difference ΔV is equal to or less than the threshold value Th (ΔV≦Th), it is determined that no problem occurs in either the magnetic sensor 7A or the magnetic sensor 7C. As described above, the magnetic forces detected by the magnetic sensors 7A and 7C are in opposite directions. Therefore, when neither the magnetic sensors 7A nor the magnetic sensors 7C are malfunctioning, the waveforms of the output voltages of the magnetic sensors 7A and 7C are symmetrical with respect to zero (=V0) (see (A) and (B) of FIG. 7). Therefore, by comparing the calculated difference ΔV with the threshold value Th, it is possible to determine whether or not a malfunction is occurring.

[0046] Similarly, for the magnetic sensors 7B and 7C, the calculated difference ΔV is compared with the threshold value Th to check for the presence or absence of a problem.

[0047] If there is no problem with any of the magnetic sensors included in the first sensor group P1 (magnetic sensors 7A, 7C) and the magnetic sensors included in the second sensor group P2 (magnetic sensors 7B, 7C), the MCU 39 determines that there is no problem with the magnetic sensors 7 (7A to 7C). As a result, the MCU 39 performs an operation determination process and determines whether or not the switch 5A (operated portion 51) has been pressed, based on the output signals of the magnetic sensors 7 (7A to 7C). As an example, when the output voltage of the magnetic sensor 7 (7A to 7C) changes and crosses zero (=V0), the MCU 39 determines that the switch 5A (operated portion 51) has been pressed.

[0048] When a malfunction occurs in at least one of the magnetic sensors (magnetic sensors 7A, 7C) included in the first sensor group P1 and the magnetic sensors (magnetic sensors 7B, 7C) included in the second sensor group P2, the MCU 39 performs an operation determination process based on the output voltages of the other magnetic sensors excluding the magnetic sensor with the malfunction, and determines whether or not the switch 5A (operated part 51) has been pressed.

[0049] Here, if the comparison result of the magnetic sensors included in the first sensor group P1 (magnetic sensors 7A, 7B) indicates a "problem," but the comparison result of the magnetic sensors included in the second sensor group P2 (magnetic sensors 7B, 7C) indicates no "problem," it is determined that a problem has occurred in the magnetic sensor 7A included in the first sensor group P1. This is because the magnetic sensor 7C is included in common in the first sensor group P1 and the second sensor group P2, and therefore it is possible to confirm from the determination result of the second sensor group P2 that no problem is occurring with the magnetic sensor 7B.

[0050] In addition, if the comparison result of the magnetic sensors included in the first sensor group P1 (magnetic sensors 7A, 7C) indicates a "problem," and the comparison result of the magnetic sensors included in the second sensor group P2 (magnetic sensors 7B, 7C) indicates a "problem," it is determined that a problem has occurred in the magnetic sensor 7C. This is because the magnetic sensor 7C is commonly included in the first sensor group P1 and the second sensor group P2.

[0051] In this case, a third sensor group P3 including magnetic sensor 7A and magnetic sensor 7B may be newly set up, and after confirming that no "problem" is found in the comparison results of the magnetic sensors (magnetic sensors 7A, 7B) included in the set third sensor group P3, it may be determined that there is a "problem" in magnetic sensor 7C.

[0052] Incidentally, if the comparison result of the magnetic sensors included in the first sensor group P1 (magnetic sensors 7A, 7C) does not indicate a "problem," but the comparison result of the magnetic sensors included in the second sensor group P2 (magnetic sensors 7B, 7C) indicates a "problem," it is determined that a problem has occurred in the magnetic sensor 7B included in the second sensor group P2.

[0053] In this way, when no problem is detected in any of the magnetic sensors 7 (7A to 7C), the MCU 39 determines whether or not the switch 5A (operated portion 51) has been pressed based on the output voltage of the magnetic sensors 7 (7A to 7C). If a problem is found in any of the magnetic sensors 7 (7A to 7C), the magnetic sensor in question can be identified by making a judgment using a combination of the output signals from each of the magnetic sensors 7 (7A to 7C), and the presence or absence of switch operation can be judged based on the output signals from the remaining magnetic sensors 7 that are not causing problems. This allows appropriate judgment of whether the switch is operated or not.

[0054] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating the arrangement of a magnetic sensor 7' according to a comparative example. In this embodiment, the magnetic sensor 7 is surface-mounted on the printed circuit board 35. 11, it is also possible to detect the change in the magnetic force of the magnet 10 using a magnetic sensor 7' with terminals 72. In this case, the magnetic sensor 7' may have a main body 71, which is the detection unit, disposed above the printed circuit board 35 and spaced a height h7 from the printed circuit board 35. In this case, unless the height h7 from the printed circuit board 35 and the distance between the detection surface 7a and the magnet 10' are strictly controlled, an unexpected deviation may occur in the output signal of the magnetic sensor 7'. Therefore, when three magnetic sensors 7' are provided for one magnet 10', a measure may be considered to strictly control the height h7 and the distance between the main body 71 and the magnet 10' by providing a support 75 for supporting the three magnetic sensors 7', for example.

[0055] In this embodiment, the magnetic sensors 7 are surface-mounted on the printed circuit board 35, and therefore the multiple magnetic sensors 7 are positioned in the direction of the axis X with reference to the printed circuit board 35. This eliminates the need to separately prepare a common support 75 as in the case of the magnetic sensor 7'. Therefore, compared to the case of the magnetic sensor 7', a reduction in manufacturing costs can be expected due to the reduced number of parts. Furthermore, since the magnetic sensors 7 are surface-mounted on the printed circuit board 35, it is easier to position the multiple magnetic sensors 7 in the direction of the axis X compared to the case of the magnetic sensor 7'. Here, it is preferable to use a rigid board whose base material is a non-flexible insulator as the printed circuit board 35. This is because if a flexible board whose base material is a flexible insulator is used, it is not easy to position the multiple magnetic sensors 7 in the direction of the axis X.

[0056] [Variations] Fig. 9 is a diagram for explaining the arrangement of magnetic sensors 8 (8A, 8B, 8C) on a printed circuit board 35A according to a modified example. Fig. 9(A) is a diagram of the printed circuit board 35A as viewed from above the operated portion 51 side, and corresponds to a cross-sectional view of the magnet 10. Fig. 9(B) is a schematic cross-sectional view of the printed circuit board 35A cut along line ABCD in Fig. 9(A).

[0057] In the above-described embodiment, an example is given of the use of a magnetic sensor (a magnetic sensor with positive characteristics) that detects upward magnetic force and outputs the amount of the upward magnetic force as a positive voltage value, and a magnetic sensor (a magnetic sensor with reverse characteristics) that detects downward magnetic force and outputs the amount of the downward magnetic force as a positive voltage value. Instead of the two types of magnetic sensors with different output characteristics, one type of magnetic sensor 8 (8A, 8B, 8C) with the same output characteristics may be used to determine whether or not switch 5A (operated portion 51) has been pressed.

[0058] In this modified example, the three magnetic sensors 8 (8A, 8B, 8C) are arranged by utilizing the thickness of the printed circuit board 35A, which differs from the configuration of the above-described embodiment in which the three magnetic sensors 7 (7A, 7B, 7C) are mounted on the surface of the printed circuit board 35.

[0059] The magnetic sensors 8 (8A, 8B, 8C) used in the modified examples are the same part having a detection surface 8a for detecting a magnetic force. The magnetic sensor 8 has the detection surface 8a on the front surface 81 side when viewed from a straight line C8 passing through the center of the thickness direction (the vertical direction in FIG. 9B) of the magnetic sensor 8. Therefore, the distance L81 from the detection surface 8a to the front surface is longer than the distance L82 from the detection surface 8a to the back surface 82. The detection surface 8a of the magnetic sensor 8 (8A, 8B, 8C) detects the magnetic force in the thickness direction (the up-down direction in the figure) of the magnetic sensor 8. The magnetic sensor 8 (8A, 8B, 8C) outputs different voltage values ​​depending on the direction and magnitude of the magnetic force detected by the detection surface 8a. In this modified example, in order to enable the above-mentioned fault judgment processing to be performed based on the output voltage of the magnetic sensors 8 (8A, 8B, 8C), magnetic sensors 8A and 8B with their detection surfaces 8a (front surface 81 side) facing upward, and a magnetic sensor 8 with its detection surface 8a (front surface 81 side) facing downward are provided on the printed circuit board 35.

[0060] As shown in FIG. 9A, magnetic sensors 8 (8A, 8B, 8C) are arranged on the side of the N pole of the magnet 10 in the printed circuit board 35A. The magnetic sensor 8A faces the N pole of the magnet 10 near the first side edge 361 with a distance W8 therebetween. The magnetic sensor 8B faces the N pole of the magnet 10 near the second side edge 362 with a distance W8 therebetween. The magnetic sensor 8C faces the N pole of the magnet 10 near the third side edge 363 with a distance W8 therebetween. The arrangement of the magnetic sensors 8 (8A, 8B, 8C) in a plan view is the same as the arrangement of the magnetic sensors 7 (7A, 7B, 7C) described above (see FIG. 6).

[0061] Here, if the magnetic sensors 8 (8A, 8B, 8C) are simply surface-mounted on the surface of the printed circuit board 35A, the detection surfaces 8a of the magnetic sensors 8A and 8B and the detection surface 8a of the magnetic sensor 8C will be positioned at different height positions in the thickness direction of the printed circuit board 35A (the up-down direction in (B) of Figure 9). In this case, the output voltages of the magnetic sensors 8 (8A, 8B, 8C) vary due to the difference in height position.

[0062] In the modified printed circuit board 35A, accommodating holes 38 (38A, 38B, 38C) are provided in the printed circuit board 35A in order to align the heights of the detection surfaces 8a of the magnetic sensors 8 (8A, 8B, 8C). The accommodating holes 38A and 38B are bottomed holes that open to one surface 35a in the thickness direction of the printed circuit board 35. The accommodating hole 38C is a bottomed hole that opens to the other surface 35b in the thickness direction of the printed circuit board 35. The magnetic sensors 8A and 8B are accommodated in the accommodation holes 38A and 38B with their detection surfaces 8a facing the other surface 35b of the printed circuit board 35 (upper side in the figure). The magnetic sensor 8C is accommodated in the accommodation hole 38C with its detection surface 8a facing the one surface 35a of the printed circuit board 35 (lower side in the figure).

[0063] In this modified example, the depth D38 of the receiving holes 38 (38A, 38B, 38C) is set so as to satisfy the following condition. (a) The detection surfaces 8a of the magnetic sensors 8 (8A, 8B, 8C) accommodated in the accommodation holes 38 (38A, 38B, 38C) are aligned at the same height position in a cross-sectional view. 9B, the detection surface 8a of the magnetic sensor 8 (8A, 8B, 8C) is located on a straight line L35 that is parallel to the surfaces 35a and 35b of the printed circuit board 35A. The straight line L35 is a straight line that is perpendicular to the axis X that is aligned with the displacement direction of the magnet 10. As a result, for example, the output voltages of the magnetic sensors 8A and 8B have the waveform shown in FIG. 7(B), and the output voltage of the magnetic sensor 8C has the waveform shown in FIG. 7(A). The waveform shown in Figure 7(A) and the waveform shown in Figure 7(C) are symmetrical with respect to zero (=V0). Therefore, a simple comparison of the output voltages makes it possible to perform a fault determination process. The obstruction determination process and the operation determination process in the modified example are the same as those in the embodiment described above, and therefore will not be described here.

[0064] In the embodiment described above, the two magnetic sensors 7A and 7B detect an upward magnetic force, and the one magnetic sensor 7C detects a downward magnetic force. However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment. As long as a pair of magnetic sensors that detect magnetic forces in opposite directions is included, the number and combination of magnetic sensors that detect upward magnetic forces and magnetic sensors that detect downward magnetic forces can be set arbitrarily. In addition, in Fig. 6, the magnetic sensors that detect an upward magnetic force are magnetic sensors 7A and 7B, and the magnetic sensor that detects a downward magnetic force is magnetic sensor 7C, but the positional relationship of these sensors is not limited to the embodiment shown in Fig. 6. As an example, the magnetic sensor that detects a downward magnetic force may be the magnetic sensor indicated by reference numeral 7A in the figure, and the magnetic sensors that detect an upward magnetic force may be the magnetic sensors indicated by reference numerals 7B and 7C in the figure, and other changes may be made as appropriate within a range in which the interference determination process can be appropriately performed.

[0065] In the embodiment described above, an example has been given in which three magnetic sensors 7 are assigned to one switch. The number of magnetic sensors 7 assigned to one switch may be two, four or more. In the two cases, one magnetic sensor for detecting an upward magnetic force and one magnetic sensor for detecting a downward magnetic force are provided. In the case of four or more magnetic sensors, the direction in which at least one magnetic sensor detects a magnetic force may be reversed relative to the directions in which the other magnetic sensors detect a magnetic force.

[0066] In the embodiment described above, the case where the MCU 39 sets a plurality of magnetic sensor groups P (detection element groups) each consisting of a pair of magnetic sensors in the three magnetic sensors 7A, 7B, and 7C when performing the interference determination process has been illustrated. For example, when there are multiple magnetic sensors, a sensor set Px consisting of a pair of magnetic sensors may be initially set, and if it is determined that there is a problem with a magnetic sensor included in the set sensor set, a new sensor set Py may be set that includes one magnetic sensor included in the sensor set Px and another magnetic sensor, and the presence or absence of a problem may be determined for the magnetic sensors included in the new sensor set Py. This also makes it possible to identify the magnetic sensor that is malfunctioning, and therefore it is possible to determine whether or not the sensor is being operated based on the output voltage of the magnetic sensor that is not malfunctioning.

[0067] In the above-described embodiment and modification 1, a case has been exemplified in which a plurality of magnetic sensors 7 (7A, 7B, 7C) and 8 (8A, 8B, 8C) are provided on a common printed circuit board 35. The arrangement of the magnetic sensors 7 (7A, 7B, 7C) and 8 (8A, 8B, 8C) is not limited to this embodiment. For example, the magnetic sensors 7 (7A, 7B, 7C) and 8 (8A, 8B, 8C) may be surface-mounted on multiple printed circuit boards on the same plane. In this case, when viewed from the radial direction of the axis X, the magnetic sensors 7 (7A, 7B, 7C) and 8 (8A, 8B, 8C) should be arranged in positions that overlap the displacement range of the magnet 10 and are aligned in the direction of the axis X.

[0068] [Variation 2] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating the arrangement of the magnetic sensors 7 (7A, 7B, 7C) according to the second modification. In the embodiment described above, a recess 36 through which the magnet 10 can pass is provided in the printed circuit board 35, and a plurality of magnetic sensors 7 (7A, 7B, 7C) are provided around the recess 36 (see FIG. 6). The arrangement of the magnetic sensors 7 (7A, 7B, 7C) is not limited to this example. For example, as shown in FIG. 10, when the printed circuit board 35 does not have a recess 36, the magnetic sensors 7 (7A, 7B, 7C) may be arranged along a linear side edge 351 of the printed circuit board 35. In this case, in order to enable all magnetic sensors 7 (7A, 7B, 7C) to detect magnetic force, the length L10 in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction in the figure) of the side edge 351 of the magnet 10 becomes longer than in the case of the printed circuit board 35 shown in Fig. 6, but it is possible to appropriately determine whether or not the switch 5A (operated portion 51) has been pressed. Note that in the case of Fig. 10, the magnetic sensors 8 (8A, 8B, C) shown in the above-mentioned modified example 1 may be used.

[0069] In the above-described embodiment and modified example, three magnetic sensors 7, 8 are surface-mounted on the printed circuit board 35. The total number of magnetic sensors 7, 8 surface-mounted on the printed circuit board 35 may be two. In this case, if a problem occurs with one of the magnetic sensors 7, 8, it is not possible to identify which magnetic sensor is faulty, but the total number of magnetic sensors surface-mounted on the printed circuit board 35 can be the minimum number required for operation detection. In such a case, an increase in the number of parts can be suppressed, which is expected to contribute to reducing the manufacturing cost of the switch device 1.

[0070] As described above, the switch device 1 according to the embodiment has the following configuration. (1) The switch device 1 is A magnet 10 that is displaced in the direction of an axis X (first axis) in response to the operation of an operated portion 51; The sensor includes a plurality of magnetic sensors 7 (7A, 7B, 7C) (detection elements) surface-mounted on one printed circuit board 35 or on a plurality of printed circuit boards on the same plane. In the switch device 1, the displacement of the magnet 10 in the direction of the axis X is detected by a plurality of magnetic sensors 7 (7A, 7B, 7C).

[0071] With this configuration, even if a problem occurs in one of the magnetic sensors 7 (7A, 7B, 7C) serving as the detection means, it is possible to continue detecting whether or not the operated portion 51 is being pressed. In addition, since the magnetic sensors 7 are surface-mounted on the printed circuit board 35, the multiple magnetic sensors 7 are positioned in the direction of the axis X with reference to the printed circuit board 35. This eliminates the need to separately prepare a common support 75 as in the case of the legged magnetic sensor 7' shown in FIG. 11. This is expected to reduce manufacturing costs compared to the case of the magnetic sensor 7' due to the reduced number of parts. Furthermore, it is easier to position the multiple magnetic sensors 7 in the direction of the axis X compared to the case of the magnetic sensor 7'.

[0072] (2) In (1) above, Each of the multiple magnetic sensors 7 (7A, 7B, 7C) (detection elements) surface-mounted on the printed circuit board 35 is oriented with the detection surface 7a of the magnetic sensor 7 aligned along the surface of the printed circuit board 35 (surfaces 35a, 35b).

[0073] This configuration makes it possible to preferably prevent the following problems that can occur when using a legged magnetic sensor 7' (see FIG. 11) having terminals 72 extending from the main body 71: (a) The magnetic sensor 7' is mounted on the printed circuit board 35 at an angle to the front surface (surface 35a). (b) Variations in the height of the magnetic sensor 7' (detection element) occur due to variations in the fixing points between the terminals 72 and the insertion holes 350 (through holes) provided in the printed circuit board 35. This reduces the possibility of generating an unexpected output signal due to variations in inclination or height even when there is no abnormality in the magnetic sensor, thereby reducing the possibility of affecting the continuation of switch operation and the detection of a problem. Furthermore, when installing the magnetic sensor 7' with legs, more care must be taken to avoid variations in tilt and height compared to when the sensor is surface-mounted on the printed circuit board 35. This means that the number of steps required in the process of manufacturing the switch device 1 is greater than when the sensor is surface-mounted on the printed circuit board 35. Thus, when the sensor is surface-mounted on the printed circuit board 35, a reduction in manufacturing costs can be expected.

[0074] (3) In (1) above, When viewed from the radial direction of the axis X, the printed circuit board 35 is provided at a position overlapping the displacement range of the magnet 10. The multiple magnetic sensors 7 (7A, 7B, 7C) are arranged with their positions aligned in the direction of the axis X.

[0075] With this configuration, multiple detection elements, or magnetic sensors 7, are surface-mounted on one board or multiple boards on the same plane, ensuring the positional stability of each detection element. For example, in the case of a detection element with legs, a holder is required to position the detection element in order to ensure the positional stability of the detection element. By surface-mounting the detection element on the board, the positional stability of the detection element can be ensured without the need for a separate part such as a holder.

[0076] (4) In any one of (1) to (3) above, The printed circuit board 35 has a recess 36 through which the magnet 10 can pass, and the multiple magnetic sensors 7 (7A, 7B, 7C) are provided around the recess 36.

[0077] When detecting the displacement of magnet 10 using multiple magnetic sensors 7 (7A, 7B, 7C), the size of magnet 10 must be large so that the magnetic sensor located farthest from magnet 10 can detect the magnetic force of magnet 10. With the above configuration, the magnetic sensors 7 (7A, 7B, 7C) can be arranged to surround the magnet 10 when viewed from the axis X direction, and the distance from the magnet 10 to each of the magnetic sensors 7 (7A, 7B, 7C) can be shortened. This makes it possible to suppress the degree to which the size of the magnet 10 increases when the displacement of one magnet 10 is detected by multiple magnetic sensors 7 (7A, 7B, 7C).

[0078] (5) In any one of (1) to (3) above, There are at least three magnetic sensors 7 (7A, 7B, 7C). The three magnetic sensors 7 (7A, 7B, 7C) include a magnetic sensor 7C that outputs an output voltage that is inverted relative to the output voltages of the other magnetic sensors 7A and 7B.

[0079] With this configuration, it is possible to eliminate the need to surface mount the magnetic sensor on the printed circuit board 35 while checking the orientation of the magnetic sensor in order to change the detection direction of the magnetic lines of force.

[0080] (6) In any one of (1) to (3) above, The total number of magnetic sensors is three (magnetic sensors 8A, 8B, and 8C). The magnetic sensors 8A, 8B, and 8C include magnetic sensors 7A and 7B that detect the magnetic field lines of the magnet 10 toward one side in the axial direction, and magnetic sensor 7C that detects the magnetic field lines toward the other side.

[0081] With this configuration, a magnetic sensor with the detection surface 8a facing one side and a magnetic sensor with the detection surface 8a facing the other side are included. For example, if the magnetic sensor 8 is designed to output a voltage according to the direction and amount of magnetic force detected, by comparing the outputs of each magnetic sensor 7, it is possible to detect a short circuit between the outputs of the two detection elements or a voltage offset failure due to the same cause.

[0082] (7) In (6) above, Each of the magnetic sensors 8 (8A, 8B, 8C) is provided by utilizing the thickness of the printed circuit board 35. The magnetic sensors 8 (8A, 8B, 8C) are provided with the detection surfaces 8a aligned in the direction of the axis X.

[0083] If the positions of the detection surfaces 8a of the magnetic sensors 8 (8A, 8B, 8C) are different, the output voltages of the magnetic sensors 8 (8A, 8B, 8C) will differ even if the distances between the magnet 10 and the magnetic sensors 8 (8A, 8B, 8C) are the same when viewed from the axis X direction. Therefore, on the MCU 39 side to which the outputs of the magnetic sensors 8 (8A, 8B, 8C) are input, it is necessary to adjust the output voltages of the magnetic sensors 8 (8A, 8B, 8C) so that they can be compared. With the above configuration, adjustment of the output voltages of the magnetic sensors 8 (8A, 8B, 8C) can be omitted or simplified, so that a reduction in the processing load on the MCU 39 as a control device can be expected.

[0084] (8) In any one of (1) to (7) above, The magnet 10 is a rod-shaped magnet with its north pole and south pole aligned in series in a direction perpendicular to the axis X. The yoke 11 supporting the magnet 10 is a first yoke portion 111 covering one side surface 10c (surface) of the magnet 10 in the direction of the axis X; A second yoke portion 112 that covers the other side surface 10d (surface) of the magnet 10 in the direction of the axis X; and a third yoke portion 113 covering the side surface of one end of the magnet 10 in a direction perpendicular to the axis X. The yoke 11 is a single component in which a first yoke portion 111, a second yoke portion 112, and a third yoke portion 113 are connected together.

[0085] With this configuration, a band-shaped yoke 11 is prepared, and the magnet 10 can be held in the yoke 11 by bending the yoke 11 so as to sandwich the magnet 10. This makes it easier to set the combination of the magnet 10 and the yoke 11 in the movable body 6 on the operated portion 51 side, compared to when the magnet 10 and the yoke 11 are separate parts.

[0086] (I) In the above (8), the magnet 10 is produced by unidirectional magnetization using a Helmholtz coil.

[0087] With this configuration, the magnet 10 can be produced inexpensively, and the production costs of the switch device 1 can be expected to be reduced.

[0088] (II) In any one of (1) to (8) and (I) above, The switch device 1 includes a plurality of switches 5 (5A to 5D) to which different functions are assigned. The switch device 1 is a switch device used to specify a driving mode of a vehicle.

[0089] With this configuration, it is possible to provide a highly reliable switch device that is less susceptible to the effect of the output voltage of a defective magnetic sensor.

[0090] Although the embodiment and modifications of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to these and can be modified as appropriate within the scope of the technical concept of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0091] 1: Switch device 5(5A~5D): Switch 6: Movable body 7 (7A to 7C), 7': Magnetic sensor 8(8A~8C): Magnetic sensor 7a, 8a: Detection surface 10: Magnet 11: York 111: First yoke section 112: Second yoke section 113: 3rd yoke section 35, 35A: Printed circuit board 36: Recess 37: Wiring 38(38A~38C): Storage hole 39: MCU 51: Operated part L: Magnetic field lines Pa: initial position Pb: initial position X: Axis line

Claims

1. a magnet that is displaced in a first axial direction in response to an operation of an operated portion; a plurality of sensing elements surface-mounted on a single substrate or on a plurality of substrates on the same plane; A switch device that detects displacement of the magnet in the first axial direction with the plurality of detection elements.

2. In claim 1, A switch device, wherein each of the detection elements surface-mounted on the substrate is oriented such that a sensing surface of the detection element is aligned along the surface of the substrate.

3. In claim 1, A switch device, wherein, when viewed in a radial direction of the first axis, the substrate is provided in a position overlapping with the displacement range of the magnet, and the multiple detection elements are arranged with their positions aligned in the first axial direction.

4. In any one of claims 1 to 3, The substrate has a recess through which the magnet can pass, and the plurality of detection elements are provided around the recess.

5. In any one of claims 1 to 3, The detection elements are at least three, A switch device, wherein the three detection elements include a detection element that outputs an inverted output relative to the output of the other detection elements.

6. In any one of claims 1 to 3, The detection elements are at least three, A switch device, wherein the detection elements include a detection element that faces one side in the first axial direction in terms of the detection direction of the magnetic field lines of the magnet, and a detection element that faces the other side.

7. In claim 6, A switch device, wherein each of the detection elements is provided by utilizing the thickness of the substrate, and the detection surfaces are aligned in the first axial direction.

8. In claim 1, the magnet is a rod-shaped magnet having a north pole and a south pole arranged in series in a direction perpendicular to the first axis, The yoke supporting the magnet is a first yoke portion covering one surface of the magnet in the first axial direction; a second yoke portion covering the other surface of the magnet in the first axial direction; a third yoke portion covering a side surface of one end of the magnet in a direction perpendicular to the first axis, A switch device, wherein the yoke is a single component in which the first yoke portion, the second yoke portion, and the third yoke portion are connected together.

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