Switch body, operating instrument, and communication system

Abstract

To provide a switch body that can improve workability.SOLUTION: A switch body H1 includes a board, a housing 2, and a quick connection terminal. The board is provided with a switch. The housing 2 houses the board. The quick connection terminal is connected to the board. The quick connection terminal is provided so as to be exposed to the outside from the housing 2.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 17

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a switch body, an operating device, and a communication system, and more particularly to a switch body, an operating device, and a communication system for operating a load such as a lighting fixture.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a lighting control device that can group-control a plurality of lighting loads in response to the operation of an operation switch. There are a plurality of operation switches incorporated in an operation terminal device. On the front surface of the case of the operation terminal device, the operation parts of the plurality of operation switches are arranged side by side.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Conventional switch bodies such as the operation terminal device described in Patent Document 1 generally have screw terminals for connecting electric wires. When attaching a conventional switch body to an object to be attached, a tightening operation for connecting the electric wire to the screw terminal is required. For example, in the case of a conventional switch body corresponding to feed wiring by a two-wire transmission line, four tightening operations corresponding to four screw terminals are required, and an improvement in workability is demanded.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a switch body, an operating device, and a communication system that can improve workability.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The switch body according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a substrate, a housing, and quick-connect terminals. A switch is provided on the substrate. The housing houses the substrate. The quick-connect terminals are connected to the substrate. The quick-connect terminals are provided so as to be exposed to the outside from the housing.

[0007] The operating device according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes the switch body and a handle. The handle is attached to the housing so as to be able to press the switch.

[0008] The communication system according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes the operating device and a communication device. The communication device communicates with the operating device.

Advantages of the Invention

[0009] The switch body, operating device, and communication system of the present disclosure have the effect of improving workability.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0010]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

Figure 16

Figure 17

Figure 18

Figure 19

Figure 20

Figure 21

Figure 22

Figure 23

Figure 24

Figure 25

Figure 26

Figure 27

Figure 28

Figure 29

MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0011] The embodiments and modifications described below are merely examples of the present disclosure, and the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments and modifications. Even outside the following embodiments and modifications, various changes can be made according to the design and the like as long as the technical idea according to the present disclosure is not deviated from. The following embodiments and modifications can be applied in appropriate combinations. Also, FIGS. 1 to 13, 16 to 29C described in the present disclosure are schematic diagrams, and the respective ratios of the sizes and thicknesses of the respective components in the drawings do not necessarily reflect the actual dimensional ratios.

[0012] (Embodiment) Hereinafter, the switch body H1, the operating device 1, and the communication system 110 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 19. The switch body H1 of the present embodiment is for lighting control.

[0013] (1) Overview Hereinafter, the overview of the switch body H1, the operating device 1, and the communication system 110 according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0014] (1-1) Quick-connect terminals exposed to the outside from the housing As shown in FIG. 14, the communication system 110 includes an operating device 1 and a communication device 111. The communication device 111 communicates with the operating device 1 via a transmission line 112. The transmission line 112 is a two-wire transmission line for feeder wiring.

[0015] As shown in FIG. 4, the operating device 1 includes a switch body H1 and a handle 3. As shown in FIGS. 6, 17 to 19, the switch body H1 includes a substrate 7, a housing 2, and a quick-connection terminal block 8 that houses four quick-connection terminals 81 and 82 therein. As shown in FIG. 19, a switch 6 is provided on the substrate 7. The switch 6 is, for example, a push-button type switch (referred to as a "push-button switch 6" in the detailed description). As shown in FIGS. 17 to 19, the housing 2 is composed of a cover 21 and a case 22 and houses the substrate 7.

[0016] As shown in FIG. 4, the handle 3 is attached to the housing 2 so as to be able to press the switch 6. The handle 3 is a member that receives an operation for switching the state of a load L1 connected to the transmission line 112 as shown in FIG. 14, and may be referred to as an "operation handle 3".

[0017] The four quick-connection terminals 81 and 82 are connected to the substrate 7 and are provided so as to be exposed to the outside from the housing 2 while being housed in the quick-connection terminal block 8 as shown in FIGS. 17 and 18. Note that the fact that the quick-connection terminals 81 and 82 are exposed to the outside from the housing 2 does not necessarily mean that the quick-connection terminals 81 and 82 are visible from the outside. It is sufficient that the wires can be connected to the quick-connection terminals 81 and 82 from the outside without opening the housing 2.

[0018] As shown in FIGS. 6, 17, and 18, the quick-connect terminal block 8 has four quick-connect terminals 81, 82 and four corresponding insertion holes 80. The four insertion holes 80 include two insertion holes 80 for communication with the first terminal and two insertion holes 80 for communication with the second terminal. In the case of the communication system 110 shown in FIG. 14, the first terminal is the communication device 111, and the second terminal is the control terminal device 91. Two electric wires for electrically connecting the communication device 111 and the operator 1 are inserted into two of the four insertion holes 80, and the other two electric wires for electrically connecting the operator 1 and the control terminal device 91 are inserted into the other two of the four insertion holes 80.

[0019] According to the above configuration, the switch body H1 includes quick-connect terminals 81, 82 (particularly, the quick-connect terminal block 8 that houses the four quick-connect terminals 81, 82) exposed to the outside from the housing 2, so that, for example, compared with the case of including screw terminals (particularly, four screw terminals), the workability can be improved. Further, the operator 1 can improve the workability, for example, compared with the case of including screw terminals, because the switch body H1 includes quick-connect terminals 81, 82 exposed to the outside from the housing 2. Furthermore, the communication system 100 can improve the workability, for example, compared with the case of including a switch body having screw terminals, because the operator 1 includes the switch body H1 having quick-connect terminals 81, 82 exposed to the outside from the housing 2.

[0020] (1-2) Arrangement of the quick-connect terminals with respect to the substrate and the exposure direction from the housing The quick-connect terminals 81, 82 (in the examples of FIGS. 6, 17, and 18, the quick-connect terminal block 8 that houses the four quick-connect terminals 81, 82; the same applies hereinafter) are connected to the surface of the substrate 7 opposite to the surface where the switch 6 is provided. Hereinafter, the "surface where the switch 6 is provided on the substrate 7" is referred to as the "first surface 7A" or the "first mounting surface 7A". The surface opposite to the first surface (first mounting surface) 7A is referred to as the "second surface 7B" or the "second mounting surface 7B".

[0021] Since the quick-connect terminals 81 and 82 are connected to the second surface (second mounting surface) 7B of the substrate 7, as shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, they are exposed to the outside from the side opposite to the switch 6 in the housing 2. Here, "the side opposite to the switch 6 in the housing 2" means the case 22 side, specifically, the back surface 22C of the case 22.

[0022] Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 18 and 19, an opening 220 is formed in the back surface 22C of the case 22. As shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, the quick-connect terminals 81 and 82 are exposed to the outside from the opening 220 in the back surface 22C of the case 22.

[0023] According to the above configuration, the quick-connect terminals 81 and 82 are connected to the second surface 7B on the side opposite to the first surface 7A of the substrate 7 where the switch 6 is provided, and are exposed to the outside from the side opposite to the switch 6 in the housing 2 (the back surface 22C of the case 22). Thus, for example, compared with the case where the quick-connect terminals 81 and 82 are connected to the first surface 7A of the substrate 7 and are exposed to the outside from the same side as the switch 6 in the housing 2 (the front surface 21A of the cover 21), it is possible to save space on the first surface 7A of the substrate 7, and thus also save space on the switch 6 side (the front surface 21A of the cover 21) of the housing 2.

[0024] (1-3) Ribs for supporting the substrate The housing 2 has ribs for supporting the substrate 7. The ribs for supporting the substrate 7 are the first rib 218 shown in FIG. 18 and the second rib 223 shown in FIG. 19.

[0025] (1-3-1) The first rib As shown in FIG. 18, the first rib 218 is on the same side as the switch 6 in the housing 2 and supports the first surface (first mounting surface) 7A of the substrate 7. Here, "the same side as the switch 6 in the housing 2" means the cover 21, specifically, the back surface 21B of the cover 21.

[0026] Specifically, a first rib 218 is formed on the back surface 21B of the cover 21, and by supporting the first surface 7A side of the substrate 7 with the first rib 218 on the back surface 21B of the cover 21, it is possible to suppress deformation of the substrate 7 corresponding to the force applied to the substrate 7 from the quick-connect terminals 81 and 82 during the operation of inserting the electric wire into the quick-connect terminals 81 and 82.

[0027] (1-3-1a) Positional relationship between the first rib and the quick-connect terminals As shown in FIG. 18, the first rib 218 is located at a position overlapping with the quick-connect terminals 81 and 82 (quick-connect terminal block 8) connected to the second surface 7B of the substrate 7 with the substrate 7 interposed therebetween.

[0028] Specifically, the first rib 218 is formed at a position on the back surface 21B of the cover 21 that overlaps with the quick-connect terminals 81 and 82. By supporting the first surface (first mounting surface) 7A side of the substrate 7 with the first rib 218 formed at the position overlapping with the quick-connect terminals 81 and 82, it is possible to more effectively suppress deformation of the substrate 7 that occurs during the wiring operation to the quick-connect terminals 81 and 82.

[0029] (1-3-2) The second rib As shown in FIG. 19, the second rib 223 is on the side of the housing 2 opposite to the switch 6 (that is, the case 22) and supports the second surface (second mounting surface) 7B side of the substrate 7. Note that the second rib 223 may be referred to as a "boss portion 223".

[0030] Specifically, a second rib (boss portion) 223 is formed on the bottom surface 22A of the case 22. By supporting the second surface 7B side of the substrate 7 with the second rib 223 on the bottom surface 22A of the case 22, it is possible to suppress deformation of the substrate 7 corresponding to the force applied to the substrate 7 from the switch 6 in response to the depression of the switch 6.

[0031] (1-3-3) Direction of the insertion holes As shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, the insertion holes 80 of the quick-connect terminals 81 and 82 are oriented in the longitudinal direction of the substrate 7. "Being oriented in the longitudinal direction of the substrate 7" means that the direction dr1 of the insertion holes 80 is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the substrate 7.

[0032] In this embodiment, the term "parallel" does not necessarily mean perfect parallelism. For example, the angle formed between the direction dr1 of the insertion hole 80 and the longitudinal direction of the substrate 7 may be equal to or less than a threshold value. The threshold value may be, for example, 5 degrees, 10 degrees, 15 degrees, etc., but is not limited thereto.

[0033] The electric wire is inserted into the insertion hole 80 in a direction opposite to the direction dr1 of the insertion hole 80. That is, the insertion direction of the electric wire is opposite to the direction dr1 of the insertion hole 80.

[0034] In FIGS. 17 and 18, the longitudinal direction of the substrate 7 is the vertical direction, i.e., the up-and-down direction. The "up-and-down direction" refers to either the direction from top to bottom or the direction from bottom to top. In contrast, when simply referring to the "direction", no distinction in direction is included. Therefore, "facing the longitudinal direction of the substrate 7" means that the direction dr1 of the insertion hole 80 faces either the upper side (vertically upward) or the lower side (vertically downward) of the vertical direction.

[0035] According to this configuration, space can be saved compared to the case where the insertion holes 80 of the quick-connect terminals 81, 82 face the short-side direction of the substrate 7.

[0036] (1-3-4) Position of the quick-connect terminal As shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, the quick-connect terminals 81, 82 are connected to one end side in the longitudinal direction of the substrate 7.

[0037] In FIGS. 17 and 18, the longitudinal direction of the substrate 7 is the vertical direction, i.e., the up-and-down direction. Therefore, one end side in the longitudinal direction of the substrate 7 is the upper end side of the substrate 7. The upper end side refers to the upper end side in the state where the operating device 1 is attached to the attachment target (use state).

[0038] According to this configuration, the quick-connect terminals 81, 82 connected to one end side in the longitudinal direction of the substrate 7 are exposed to the outside from the housing 2 and serve as a guide for the attachment direction, thereby further improving the workability.

[0039] (1-3-5) Combination of the position of the quick-connect terminals and the direction of the insertion holes In FIGS. 17 and 18, the quick-connect terminals 81 and 82 are connected to one end side in the longitudinal direction of the substrate 7, and the insertion holes 80 of the quick-connect terminals 81 and 82 are provided so as to face the other end side in the longitudinal direction of the substrate 7.

[0040] Note that the longitudinal direction of the substrate 7 is the vertical direction, and the other end side in the longitudinal direction of the substrate 7 is the lower end side of the substrate 7. The lower end side is the lower end side in the state where the operating device 1 is attached to the object to be attached. The fact that the insertion hole 80 faces the other end side in the longitudinal direction of the substrate 7 means that the insertion holes 80 of the quick-connect terminals 81 and 82 connected to the upper end side of the substrate 7 face the lower end side of the substrate 7, that is, face the lower side in the vertical direction.

[0041] According to this configuration, by the insertion holes 80 of the quick-connect terminals 81 and 82 provided on one end side in the longitudinal direction of the substrate 7 (for example, the upper end side in the vertical direction) facing the other end side in the longitudinal direction of the substrate 7 (for example, the lower end side in the vertical direction), it is possible to further improve the workability and also save space.

[0042] (1-3-5a) Specific example of the combination of the position of the quick-connect terminals and the direction of the insertion holes As shown in FIG. 1, the housing 2 is attached to the object to be attached via the mounting frame 5 so that the longitudinal direction of the substrate 7 is the vertical direction. As shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, the quick-connect terminals 81 and 82 are connected to the upper end side of the substrate 7 and are exposed to the outside from the upper end side of the housing 2. The direction dr1 of the insertion holes 80 of the quick-connect terminals 81 and 82 faces the lower side in the vertical direction.

[0043] According to this configuration, since the quick-connect terminals 81 and 82 are exposed to the outside from the upper end side of the housing 2, it is possible to improve the workability and save space. Further, since the insertion holes 80 of the quick-connect terminals 81 and 82 face the lower side in the vertical direction, it is possible to prevent water droplets due to condensation from entering the inside of the housing 2 from the insertion holes 80 of the quick-connect terminals 81 and 82.

[0044] (1-3-6) Arrangement of a plurality of insertion holes As shown in FIGS. 17 and 18, the four insertion holes 80 corresponding to the four quick-connect terminals 81 and 82 are arranged in the short side direction of the substrate 7.

[0045] According to this configuration, by arranging a plurality (for example, four) of insertion holes 80 in the short side direction of the substrate 7, space can be saved compared to the case where they are arranged in the longitudinal direction of the substrate 7.

[0046] (1-3-7) Positional relationship between a plurality of switches and quick-connect terminals As shown in FIG. 19, a plurality of switches 6 are provided in the longitudinal direction of the substrate 7 on the first surface (first mounting surface) 7A of the substrate 7. In this case, on the second surface (second mounting surface 7B) of the substrate 7 shown in FIG. 18, the quick-connect terminals 81 and 82 are connected at positions corresponding to between two adjacent switches among the plurality of switches 6 provided on the first surface (first mounting surface 7A).

[0047] According to this configuration, when a plurality of switches 6 are arranged in the longitudinal direction on the first surface (first mounting surface 7A) of the substrate 7, on the second surface (second mounting surface 7B) of the substrate 7, by connecting the quick-connect terminals 81 and 82 at positions corresponding to between two adjacent switches 6 among the plurality of switches 6 on the first surface (first mounting surface 7A), the pins of the quick-connect terminals 81 and 82 on the second mounting surface 7B side can penetrate the substrate 7 and protrude to the first surface 7A side, so that wiring can be facilitated.

[0048] (2) Details (2-1) Overall configuration Hereinafter, the operating device 1 according to the present embodiment and the communication system 110 including the operating device 1 will be described.

[0049] The communication system 110 is used in facilities such as office buildings, stores, hospitals, schools, or factories, for example. In the facility, a communication device 111 and an operator 1 are installed. Also, in the facility, a lighting fixture A1, a relay Ry1, and a control terminal device 9 are installed. The relay Ry1 has a contact connected between an AC power supply and the lighting fixture A1, and the contact is switched on or off according to a switching signal from the control terminal device 9. The control terminal device 9 switches between a state of supplying power from the AC power supply to the lighting fixture A1 and a state of cutting off the power supply by outputting a switching signal to the relay Ry1 to switch the contact on or off. Here, a load control system 120 for controlling the load L1 (for example, the lighting fixture A1) is realized by the communication system 110 including the operator 1 and the communication device 111, the control terminal device 9, and the load L1 to be controlled. The load L1 is not limited to the lighting fixture A1, and may be the relay Ry1 for switching between a state of supplying power to the lighting fixture A1 and a state of cutting off the power supply. Also, the load L1 may be an electrical device such as a ventilation fan other than the lighting fixture A1, or a relay for switching between a state of supplying power to an electrical device such as a ventilation fan and a state of cutting off the power supply. In the following embodiments, the case where the load L1 is the lighting fixture A1 will be described as an example. Also, in FIG. 14, the number of operators 1 is one, but the number of operators 1 may be two or more. In FIG. 14, the number of control terminal devices 9 is two, but the number of control terminal devices 9 may be one or three or more. In FIG. 14, one relay Ry1 is connected to the control terminal device 9, and the control terminal device 9 controls the lighting / extinguishing of one lighting fixture A1, but two or more relays Ry1 may be connected to one control terminal device 9, and one control terminal device 9 may control the lighting / extinguishing of two or more lighting fixtures A1. In the following description, when distinguishing and describing two lighting fixtures A1, they may be described as lighting fixtures A11 and A12, and when distinguishing and describing two control terminal devices 9, they may be described as control terminal devices 91 and 92.

[0050] The operator 1, the communication device 111, and the two control terminal devices 9 are each electrically connected to a two-wire transmission line 112.

[0051] The operator 1 is provided with a plurality (e.g., 8) of push-button switches 6. A load address is assigned to each of the plurality of push-button switches 6. The load address is composed of, for example, a load channel and a load number. When any one of the plurality of push-button switches 6 is pressed, the operator 1 transmits the load address assigned to the pressed push-button switch 6 to the communication device 111.

[0052] An individual address is assigned to the control terminal device 9. Also, an individual address is assigned to the relay Ry1 connected to the control terminal device 9, and the address obtained by combining the address of the control terminal device 9 and the address of the relay Ry1 becomes the address of the load L1 to be controlled. When the control terminal device 9 receives a control command addressed to itself from the communication device 111, it controls the relay Ry1 to be controlled to be on or off according to the received control command, thereby turning on or off the lighting fixture A1. Note that the control terminal device 9 may perform dimming control of the lighting fixture A1 according to the received control command.

[0053] The communication device 111 has a memory that stores the correspondence between the load addresses assigned to the plurality of pushbutton switches 6 provided in the operator 1 and the address of the load L1 to be controlled. The communication device 111 communicates with the operator 1 connected to the transmission line 112 and two control terminals 9 in a multiplex transmission system. The communication device 111 performs constant polling to sequentially access the operator 1 and the two control terminals 9, and acquires information from the operator 1 and the two control terminals 9. When any one of the plurality of pushbutton switches 6 provided in the operator 1 is pressed, the operator 1 transmits an interrupt signal to the communication device 111. When the communication device 111 receives the interrupt signal, it accesses the operator 1 that transmitted the interrupt signal, and acquires the load address assigned to the pressed pushbutton switch 6 from the operator 1. When the communication device 111 acquires the load address of the pressed pushbutton switch 6, it acquires the address of the load L1 to be controlled associated with this load address, and transmits a control command to the control terminal 9 corresponding to the acquired address. For example, if the load address of the pressed pushbutton switch 6 is associated with the lighting fixture A11 connected to the control terminal 91, the communication device 111 transmits a control command to the control terminal 91. Also, if the load address of the pressed pushbutton switch 6 is associated with the lighting fixture A12 connected to the control terminal 92, the communication device 111 transmits a control command to the control terminal 92. When the control terminal 9 receives a control command addressed to itself from the communication device 111, it controls the relay Ry1 to be controlled to be on or off according to the control command, and turns on, turns off, or dims the lighting fixture A1.

[0054] The load addresses assigned to the push-button switch 6 include individual control addresses, group control addresses, pattern control addresses, etc. When the push-button switch 6 assigned with an individual control address is pressed, the communication device 111 transmits a control command to the control terminal device 9 associated with the individual control address, and lights, turns off, or dims one lighting fixture A1 associated with the individual control address. When the push-button switch 6 assigned with a group control address is pressed, the communication device 111 transmits a control command to one or more control terminal devices 9 associated with the group control address. One or more control terminal devices 9 associated with the group control address collectively light, turn off, or dim a plurality of lighting fixtures A1 associated with the group control address based on the control command from the communication device 111. Also, when the push-button switch 6 assigned with a pattern control address is pressed, the communication device 111 transmits a control command to one or more control terminal devices 9 associated with the pattern control address. One or more control terminal devices 9 associated with the pattern control address control each of the plurality of lighting fixtures A1 to the state (lit, turned off, or dimmed) specified by the control command based on the control command from the communication device 111.

[0055] Note that the transmission signal transmitted by the communication device 111 to the transmission line 112 is a bipolarity (±24V) time-division multiplexed signal. The operating power of the internal circuits of the operator 1 and the two control terminal devices 9 is generated by rectifying and stabilizing the transmission signal transmitted by the communication device 111.

[0056] (2-2) Operator Hereinafter, the configuration of the operator 1 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 1 to 13. Hereinafter, based on the arrows in the vertical, horizontal, and front-rear directions without the entities shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the direction of the operator 1 may be defined for explanation, but it is not intended to limit the usage direction of the operator 1. FIG. 15 is a schematic block diagram of the operator 1.

[0057] The operator 1 includes a signal processing unit 15, a plurality of push-button switches 6, a display light-emitting unit 10, a setting communication unit 16, a communication unit 17, a storage unit 18, and a power supply unit 19. Further, the operator 1 includes a pair of quick-connect terminals 81 and a pair of quick-connect terminals 82.

[0058] The communication unit 17 is connected to a pair of electric wires via a pair of quick-connect terminals 81 and is also connected to a pair of electric wires via a pair of quick-connect terminals 82. Thus, the communication unit 17 is branch-connected to the pair of electric wires. The communication unit 17 communicates with the communication device 111 in a multiplex transmission system via the pair of electric wires.

[0059] The power supply unit 19 generates the operating power for the internal circuit by rectifying and stabilizing the transmission signal transmitted from the communication device 111 to the pair of electric wires.

[0060] The setting communication unit 16 has the above-described communication light-emitting unit X1 and communication light-receiving unit Y1. The setting communication unit 16 communicates with a setter 500 (see FIG. 16) for address setting. The communication light-emitting unit X1 transmits a signal to the setter 500 by infrared light, and the communication light-receiving unit Y1 receives the infrared light transmitted from the setter 500, thereby performing optical communication using infrared light with the setter 500. The setter 500 is used to set a load address for each of the plurality of push-button switches 6 provided in the operator 1.

[0061] The signal processing unit 15 performs overall control of the operator 1. The signal processing unit 15 mainly consists of a computer system having one or more processors and a memory. The functions of the signal processing unit 15 are realized by the processor of the computer system executing the program recorded in the memory of the computer system. The program may be recorded in the memory, may be provided through a telecommunication line such as the Internet, or may be provided by being recorded on a non-temporary recording medium such as a memory card.

[0062] The storage unit 18 includes memories such as, for example, a RAM (Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read-Only Memory), and an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory). The storage unit 18 stores, for example, the programs executed by the signal processing unit 15. The storage unit 18 stores, for example, the load addresses assigned to each of the plurality of push buttons 6.

[0063] The operating device 1 includes a housing 2, one or more (four in FIG. 1) operating handles 3, a substrate 7, and a mounting frame 5. Further, the operating device 1 further includes one or more (eight in FIG. 2) push buttons 6, a display light-emitting unit 10, one or more (two in FIG. 2) communication light-emitting units X1, and one or more (two in FIG. 2) communication light-receiving units Y1. Further, the operating device 1 further includes a quick-connect terminal block 8 (see FIG. 6).

[0064] Note that the configuration in which the operating handle 3 is removed from the operating device 1 is the operating device main body 1X (see FIGS. 4 and 7). The operating device main body 1X includes a substrate 7 and a housing 2. The substrate 7 is provided with a display light-emitting unit 10, a communication light-emitting unit X1, a communication light-receiving unit Y1, and a push button 6. The housing 2 houses the substrate 7. The housing 2 includes a support portion 23 for attaching the operating handle 3 in a state where the push button 6 can be pressed. The housing 2 is provided with a housing-side opening 20 through which at least one of the light emitted by the communication light-emitting unit X1 and the light received by the communication light-receiving unit Y1 and the light emitted by the display light-emitting unit 10 can pass.

[0065] The display light-emitting unit 10 has one or more (eight in FIG. 2) light-emitting groups G1. As shown in FIG. 2, each light-emitting group G1 includes a first light-emitting unit 11 and a second light-emitting unit 12. In short, the operating device 1 includes a plurality of operating handles 3, and the operating device 1 includes a plurality of light-emitting groups G1 including the first light-emitting unit 11 and the second light-emitting unit 12. Note that the operating device 1 includes the same number of light-emitting groups G1 as the push buttons 6.

[0066] (2-2-1) Operating Handle In this embodiment, the operating device 1 includes, for example, a mounting frame 5 having the dimensions of a mounting frame for three large square continuous wiring devices standardized by the Japanese Industrial Standards (i.e., the mounting frame of a so-called three-way switch). In this embodiment, the number of operating handles 3 is four. Also, each operating handle 3 corresponds to a so-called seesaw-type operating handle in which when one of the left and right ends is pressed and displaced backward, the other is displaced forward, and conversely, when the other is displaced backward, one is displaced forward. However, the number of push-button switches 6 pressed by each operating handle 3 is two (i.e., a total of eight). The two push-button switches 6 corresponding to each operating handle 3 are arranged side by side with a predetermined interval in the left-right direction. Hereinafter, the two push-button switches 6 corresponding to each operating handle 3 may be simply referred to as "left and right push-button switches 6", one as the "right push-button switch 6", and the other as the "left push-button switch 6". Note that in the operating device 1 having eight push-button switches 6, the right four push-button switches 6 are assigned load addresses with a common load channel and different load numbers. Also, the left four push-button switches 6 are assigned load addresses with a common load channel and different load numbers.

[0067] The number of operating handles 3 is not limited to four. For example, the number of operating handles 3 may be any one of one to three, or five or more. Also, the number of push-button switches 6 is not limited to a total of eight. As in a modification example (operating device 1A) described later, the number of push-button switches 6 pressed by each operating handle 3 may be one.

[0068] As described above, the operating device 1 includes four operating handles 3 (see FIG. 1). The four operating handles 3 are provided in a manner of being held by the housing 2. Each operating handle 3 receives an operation for switching the state of a load L1 (in this embodiment, a lighting fixture A1 or a relay Ry1). In this embodiment, each operating handle 3 can individually switch the states of two different loads L1 (lighting fixture A1 or relay Ry1).

[0069] The four operation handles 3 are arranged so as to be vertically aligned in a front view. The four operation handles 3 have the same structure as each other. Hereinafter, when the four operation handles 3 (operation parts) are separately described, they may be referred to as the first operation handle 3A, the second operation handle 3B, the third operation handle 3C, and the fourth operation handle 3D in order from the top.

[0070] As shown in FIGS. 3, 7 to 9, each operation handle 3 (operation part) includes a main body part 31, a name plate 32, a lid part 33, and a light-transmitting cover 4.

[0071] The main body part 31 is formed in a rectangular plate shape that is long in the left-right direction. The main body part 31 is made of, for example, resin.

[0072] The main body part 31 has an opening 30 that is long in the left-right direction when viewed from the front. As shown in FIG. 13B, the opening 30 includes a first opening 301 on the right side, a second opening 302 on the left side, and a third opening 303 located in the center when viewed from the front. In the present embodiment, the first opening 301 and the third opening 303 are spatially connected, and the second opening 302 and the third opening 303 are spatially connected. Note that the "handle-side opening 30X" in the present disclosure corresponds to each of the first opening 301 on the right side and the second opening 302 on the left side as shown in FIG. 13B. In other words, the operation handle 3 has a handle-side opening 30X. Also, the "window hole" in the present disclosure corresponds to the third opening 303 located in the center as shown in FIG. 13B. That is, a window hole (third opening 303) is provided at a part of the operation surface 31A of the operation handle 3 that is different from the handle-side opening 30X. For example, when the name plate 32 is arranged on the back side of the operation handle 3, the characters of the name plate 32 can be visually recognized through the window hole 303. Here, the handle-side opening 30X and the window hole (third opening 303) are connected. There is an advantage that the operation handle 3 is easier to manufacture compared to the case where the handle-side opening 30X and the window hole 303 are provided separately.

[0073] The handle-side opening 30X is formed in a slit shape. In the present embodiment, the handle-side opening 30X is a vertically long rectangular hole when viewed from the front. The handle-side opening 30X emits the light (such as the light from the first light-emitting unit 11 and the second light-emitting unit 12) emitted from the housing-side opening 20 of the housing 2 described later.

[0074] The main body portion 31 has a flat operation surface 31A (see FIGS. 1, 3, and 7) on its front side. The operation surface 31A is the surface around the opening 30 and is the surface that receives a pressing operation from the user. Note that not only the operation surface 31A but also the surface 40 (see FIGS. 1, 3, and 7) of the light-transmitting cover 4 fitted into the opening 30 can be the surface that receives a pressing operation from the user. When it is described as "the operation surface 31A (surface 40) is pressed" in the following description, it means that at least one of the operation surface 31A of the main body portion 31 and the surface 40 of the light-transmitting cover 4 is pressed.

[0075] When the user presses a region near the right end or the left end of the operation surface 31A (surface 40) with a fingertip or the like, a pressing operation on the operation handle 3 is performed. The pressing direction in which the user performs a pressing operation on the operation handle 3 generally corresponds to the rear.

[0076] The main body portion 31 has a pair of locking portions corresponding to the mounting portion 3X at both left and right ends on the back surface 31B opposite to the operation surface 31A. Hereinafter, the right locking portion among the pair of locking portions is referred to as "the first locking portion 311", and the left locking portion is referred to as "the second locking portion 312" (see FIGS. 7, 8, and 9).

[0077] The first locking portion 311 and the second locking portion 312 are formed symmetrically on the left and right. Each of the first locking portion 311 and the second locking portion 312 has a pair of locking pieces 3100 protruding rearward. Each locking piece 3100 is formed in a claw shape with its tip protruding outward. Each locking piece 3100 is inserted into a corresponding one of a plurality of locking holes 212 (see FIGS. 7 and 10) provided in the cover 21 of the housing 2. When the right end (or left end) of the operation surface 31A (the surface 40) is subjected to a pressing operation, the right end portion (or left end portion) of the main body portion 31 retreats, and the main body portion 31 rotates so that the left end portion (or right end portion) protrudes forward. In this state, the length of each locking piece 3100 is set so that the claw-shaped tip of the locking piece 3100 provided at the left end portion (or right end portion) contacts the peripheral edge of the locking hole 212.

[0078] Further, the main body portion 31 has a pair of holding portions corresponding to the mounting portion 3X at both upper and lower ends on the back surface 31B side. Hereinafter, the upper holding portion of the pair of holding portions is referred to as the "first holding portion 313", and the lower holding portion is referred to as the "second holding portion 314" (see FIGS. 7, 8, 9, and 11A).

[0079] The first holding portion 313 and the second holding portion 314 respectively hold a pair of rotation shafts 230 (see FIGS. 7, 10, and 11A) of the support portion 23 provided on the cover 21 of the housing 2. Each of the first holding portion 313 and the second holding portion 314 is configured as a protruding piece protruding rearward from the back surface 31B of the main body portion 31. The tip of each of the first holding portion 313 and the second holding portion 314 has a recess 315 (see FIGS. 8 and 9) recessed forward, and the corresponding rotation shaft 230 is press-fitted into the recess 315. As a result, the main body portion 31 (that is, the operation handle 3) is supported by the support portion 23 and can rotate like a seesaw within a predetermined angular range about the pair of rotation shafts 230.

[0080] Note that each of the pair of rotation shafts 230 has a radius of the front semi-cylindrical portion slightly larger than the radius of the rear semi-cylindrical portion, and a step 232 (see FIG. 11B) is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the rotation shaft 230 between the front semi-cylindrical portion and the rear semi-cylindrical portion. On the other hand, a claw portion 3151 (see FIG. 9) is provided at a position corresponding to the step 232 of the rotation shaft 230 in the recesses 315 provided in the first holding portion 313 and the second holding portion 314. Therefore, in a state where the rotation shaft 230 is fitted into the recesses 315 of the first holding portion 313 and the second holding portion 314 (see FIG. 11B), the claw portion 3151 is caught by the step 232, making it difficult for the rotation shaft 230 to come off from the first holding portion 313 and the second holding portion 314.

[0081] In short, the operation handle 3 has an attachment portion 3X for attaching to the housing 2, and the attachment portion 3X includes the first locking portions 311 and 312, and the first holding portion 313 and the second holding portion 314 described above.

[0082] The main body portion 31 has a holding structure for holding the lid portion 33 on the back surface 31B side. Specifically, the main body portion 31 has a pair of bearing portions 316 (see FIGS. 8 and 9) and a pair of protruding portions 317 (see FIG. 8). The pair of bearing portions 316 are provided on both left and right sides of the second holding portion 314 at the lower end portion of the main body portion 31 on the back surface 31B side. The pair of bearing portions 316 respectively hold the pair of shaft portions 331 (see FIGS. 8C and 9) of the lid portion 33. The pair of protruding portions 317 are provided on both left and right sides of the first holding portion 313 at the upper end portion of the main body portion 31 on the back surface 31B side. Each of the pair of protruding portions 317 has a hole portion 318 into which the protruding piece 332 of the lid portion 33 (see FIG. 8C) is inserted.

[0083] As shown in Fig. 7, the nameplate 32 is formed in a rectangular plate shape that is long in the left - right direction. The nameplate 32 is made of, for example, resin. The nameplate 32 is disposed between the rear surface of the light - transmitting cover 4 fitted into the opening 30 of the operation handle 3 and the lid portion 33. A name related to the load L1 whose state is switched by the operation of the operation handle 3 may be indicated on the nameplate 32. For example, a name such as "Conference Room 1" corresponding to the location where the load L1 is installed may be indicated. For example, a user who uses the operator 1 appropriately writes a name on the surface of the nameplate 32. The nameplate 32 is disposed on the back surface 31B side of the main body portion 31 so as to face the third opening 303 of the main body portion 31 through the light - transmitting cover 4. The nameplate 32 is substantially the same shape and substantially the same size as the third opening 303 when viewed from the front. The lid portion 33 is disposed on the back side of the nameplate 32. In the light - transmitting cover 4, the portion disposed in the third opening 303 that serves as a window hole becomes the cover member 42. That is, the operation handle 3 has a light - transmitting cover member 42 disposed in the window hole (third opening 303). In the present disclosure, the light - transmitting member refers to a member having at least one of the property of transmitting light (visible light and / or infrared light, etc.) and the property of guiding light (visible light and / or infrared light, etc.).

[0084] The operation handle 3 includes a lid portion 33 that covers the surface on the side opposite to the operation surface 31A (surface 40) of the cover member 42. The lid portion 33 is made of, for example, resin. The lid portion 33 is formed in a rectangular plate shape having a long side and a short side. The lid portion 33 is disposed so as to sandwich the nameplate 32 between itself and the rear surface of the light - transmitting cover 4 (cover member 42). The characters on the nameplate 32 disposed between the light - transmitting cover 4 (cover member 42) and the lid portion 33 can be visually recognized from the outside through the window hole (third opening 303). The lid portion 33 has a first end portion and a second end portion that face each other. The first end portion and the second end portion of the lid portion 33 face each other in the short - side direction. And the lid portion 33 is attached in such a state that the first end portion can be opened and the second end portion can be rotated with respect to the operation handle 3. Therefore, the nameplate 32 can be attached or detached with the lid portion 33 open.

[0085] Specifically, the lid portion 33 has a pair of shaft portions 331 (see FIGS. 7 and 8C) at the second end portion (lower end portion). Further, the lid portion 33 has a pair of projecting pieces 332 (see FIGS. 7 and 8C) at the first end portion (upper end portion). The lid portion 33 is held rotatably on the main body portion 31 between an open position where the nameplate 32 can be taken out with the shaft portion 331 as a rotation axis and a closed position where the nameplate 32 is covered by the shaft portion 331 being held by the bearing portion 316 of the main body portion 31. In the closed position, by further pushing the lid portion 33 forward with a fingertip or the like, the pair of projecting pieces 332 are respectively fitted into the pair of hole portions 318 of the main body portion 31, and it is suppressed that the lid portion 33 opens.

[0086] The lid portion 33 has a pair of protruding contact portions 334 (see FIG. 8C: a total of four) near each of the left and right ends on the back surface thereof. The contact portions 334 are arranged to face a pressing portion 210 provided on the cover 21 of the housing 2 described later. The contact portions 334 transmit the pressing operation received from the user on the operation surface 31A (front surface 40) to the pressing portion 210 by contacting the pressing portion 210. The contact portions 334 may be in slight contact with the pressing portion 210 even when not receiving a pressing operation. Alternatively, the contact portions 334 may be separated from the pressing portion 210 when not receiving a pressing operation and contact the pressing portion 210 by receiving a pressing operation.

[0087] The lid portion 33 further has a gripping portion 333 (FIG. 8C) that can be pinched by a user's finger or the like on the back surface thereof. That is, the gripping portion 333 is provided at a position closer to the first end portion (upper end portion in the present embodiment) than the second end portion (lower end portion in the present embodiment) at a portion of the lid portion 33 on the side opposite to the operation surface 31A of the operation handle 3. The gripping portion 333 is formed in a T shape, and the user can open the lid portion 33 by pinching and pulling the gripping portion 333. Note that the shape of the gripping portion 333 is not limited to a T shape and can be changed as appropriate.

[0088] The light-transmitting cover 4 is disposed within the opening 30. The light-transmitting cover 4 is formed of a synthetic resin material having light-transmitting properties, such as acrylic resin, polycarbonate resin, etc. The light-transmitting cover 4 is formed in a rectangular box shape with the upper surface, lower surface, and back surface open as a whole.

[0089] Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the light-transmitting cover 4 includes a pair of optical members 41 that respectively cover the left and right first opening 301 and second opening 302 (see FIG. 13B), and a cover member 42 that covers the central third opening 303. In the present embodiment, the operation handle 3 has a light-transmitting optical member 41 disposed in the handle-side opening 30X and a light-transmitting cover member 42 disposed in the window hole 303, and the optical member 41 and the cover member 42 are integrally provided. Therefore, there is an advantage that the workability of the assembly work is improved as compared with the case where the optical member 41 and the cover member 42 are separate parts. Note that the pair of optical members 41 and the cover member 42 are one member formed continuously and integrally, but they may be separate members from each other. The pair of optical members 41 and the cover member 42 each have light-transmitting properties, but may have light-guiding properties. For example, the optical member 41 may have a function of guiding the light from the display light-emitting unit 10 and the communication light-emitting unit X1 incident on the rear surface of the optical member 41 to the front surface of the optical member 41 and emitting it to the outside from the front surface of the optical member 41. Further, the optical member 41 may have a function of guiding the light incident on the front surface of the optical member 41 from the setter 500 and emitting it from the rear surface of the optical member 41 to the communication light-receiving unit Y1.

[0090] Also, the cover member 42, which is a part of the light-transmitting cover 4, is formed in a rectangular plate shape. The nameplate 32 is disposed to face the cover member 42. The cover member 42 has a pair of protrusions 420 (see FIGS. 7 and 8) protruding from the upper and lower edge portions respectively. By the pair of protrusions 420 hitting the periphery of the third opening 303 from behind, the light-transmitting cover 4 is prevented from falling off from the opening 30. Since the cover member 42 has light-transmitting properties, the user can visually recognize the name written on the nameplate 32 through the cover member 42.

[0091] A pair of optical members 41 are respectively provided at the left and right ends of the light-transmitting cover 4. By being disposed within the first opening 301, the optical member 41 on the right side reduces the loss of light (visible light) from the first light-emitting unit 11 and the second light-emitting unit 12 described later, and efficiently guides it to the outside (front) of the light-transmitting cover 4. Among the four operation handles 3, only the fourth operation handle 3D can also allow the light (infrared light) from the communication light-emitting unit X1 (see FIG. 5) and the light (infrared light) directed toward the communication light-receiving unit Y1 (see FIG. 5) to pass through the optical member 41 on the right side in addition to the above-described visible light. FIG. 5 is a partial plan view of the main part of the region on the substrate 7 corresponding to the fourth operation handle 3D. Also, by being disposed within the second opening 302, the optical member 41 on the left side reduces the loss of light (visible light) from the first light-emitting unit 11 and the second light-emitting unit 12, and efficiently guides it to the outside (front) of the light-transmitting cover 4. Among the four operation handles 3, only the fourth operation handle 3D can also allow the light (infrared light) from the communication light-emitting unit X1 and the light (infrared light) directed toward the communication light-receiving unit Y1 to pass through the optical member 41 on the left side in addition to the above-described visible light. Thus, the operation handle 3 has a light-transmissive optical member 41 disposed in the handle-side opening 30X (the first opening 301 and the second opening 302). Therefore, with the first to third operation handles 3A to 3C, the light from the display light-emitting unit 10 can be guided forward through the optical member 41. Also, with the fourth operation handle 3D, the light from the display light-emitting unit 10 and the light from the communication light-emitting unit X1 can be guided forward through the optical member 41, and the light directed from the outside toward the communication light-receiving unit Y1 can be guided to the communication light-receiving unit Y1 through the optical member 41.

[0092] In this embodiment, each optical member 41 has a protruding portion 410 (see FIGS. 8 and 9) formed in a substantially rectangular column shape. That is, in a state where the operation handle 3 is attached to the housing 2, the protruding portion 410 protruding toward the substrate 7 is provided on the light-transmitting cover 4. In a state where the operation handle 3 is attached to the housing 2, at least a part of the protruding portion 410 is inserted into the housing-side opening 20. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3, the protruding portion 410 passes through the housing-side opening 20 provided in the cover 21 and extends to the back so as to face the first light-emitting portion 11 and the second light-emitting portion 12 mounted on the substrate 7 accommodated in the housing 2 in the vicinity. Among the four operation handles 3, only the fourth operation handle 3D has the protruding portion 410 of each optical member 41 facing the communication light-emitting portion X1 and the communication light-receiving portion Y1 mounted on the substrate 7 in the vicinity as well.

[0093] The user can visually recognize the light (visible light) from the first light-emitting portion 11 and the second light-emitting portion 12 through each optical member 41. A lens portion may be provided on the rear surface of the optical member 41 to make the light from the display light-emitting portion 10 and the communication light-emitting portion X1 incident on the rear surface of the optical member 41 into parallel light. Further, a lens portion may be provided on the rear surface of the optical member 41 to condense the light emitted from the rear surface of the optical member 41 onto the communication light-receiving portion Y1. Also, a part of the light from the first light-emitting portion 11 and the second light-emitting portion 12 can be derived from the central cover member 42 as well. The cover member 42 may have light-guiding properties, and the light from the display light-emitting portion 10 may be guided by the optical member 41 and the cover member 42 and emitted to the outside from the front surfaces of the optical member 41 and the cover member 42.

[0094] Also, each optical member 41 further has a protrusion 411 (see FIGS. 7 and 8) protruding outward. By the pair of protrusions 411 hitting the peripheries of the first opening 301 and the second opening 302 from behind, the optical member 41 is prevented from falling off from the opening 30 of the light-transmitting cover 4.

[0095] In addition, each optical member 41 further has a protrusion 412 (see FIG. 7) that protrudes forward, so there is an advantage that the position where each operation handle 3 is pressed is easy to understand. Note that the protrusion indicating the operation position may be provided on the operation surface 31A of the operation handle 3 (that is, the peripheral portion of the opening 30). In this case, it is not necessary to provide the protrusion 412 of the optical member 41.

[0096] When attaching the operation handle 3 configured in this way to the housing 2, for example, the first locking portion 311 and the second locking portion 312 are bent in a direction approaching each other with fingertips or the like. In this state, while inserting each locking piece 3100 into the corresponding locking hole 212 from the front, the operation handle 3 is pushed backward so that the rotary shaft 230 is fitted into the recess 315 of the first holding portion 313 and the second holding portion 314. As a result, the main body portion 31 is supported by the support portion 23, and the first locking portion 311 and the second locking portion 312 elastically return in a direction away from each other, and each locking piece 3100 is stably positioned within the locking hole 212.

[0097] Even if the main body portion 31 is pulled forward, the tips of the locking pieces 3100 of the first locking portion 311 and the second locking portion 312 are caught by the peripheral edge of the locking hole 212. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the main body portion 31 from coming off the support portion 23. As a result, the operation handle 3 is prevented from falling off the housing 2.

[0098] (2-2-2) Housing The housing 2 is formed in a long shape. In the present embodiment, the housing 2 is formed in a rectangular box shape that is flat in the front-rear direction and long in the vertical direction.

[0099] The housing 2 houses the substrate 7 and the like inside. As shown in FIGS. 6, 17, and 18, the housing 2 holds the quick-connect terminal block 8 mounted on the substrate 7 on the back side so as to be exposed to the outside. As shown in FIG. 12, the housing 2 includes a cover 21 and a case 22. Both the cover 21 and the case 22 are made of resin.

[0100] The cover 21 is formed in a rectangular box shape with an open rear surface. The cover 21 is assembled to cover the (open) front surface of the case 22.

[0101] As shown in FIGS. 10 and 12, the cover 21 has one or a plurality (here, four) of support portions 23 arranged side by side in the vertical direction in a front view. As described above, each support portion 23 has a pair of rotating shafts 230 that fit into a pair of depressions 315 of the corresponding operation handle 3. Specifically, the support portion 23 further has a pair of substantially triangular plate-shaped protrusions 231 that protrude forward from the front surface 21A of the cover 21 (see FIGS. 10 and 12). The pair of protrusions 231 are arranged at a predetermined interval in the vertical direction. The pair of rotating shafts 230 protrude in a direction away from each other from the pair of protrusions 231 in the vertical direction.

[0102] Also, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 12, the cover 21 has one or a plurality (here, four) of pressing portions 210 arranged side by side in the vertical direction in a front view. The four pressing portions 210 are respectively arranged so as to correspond to the four support portions 23. Specifically, each pressing portion 210 is arranged between a pair of protrusions 231 of the corresponding support portion 23 that are arranged at a predetermined interval. Each pressing portion 210 transmits a pressing operation from the operation handle 3 supported by the corresponding support portion 23 to either one of the left and right push buttons 6. As shown in FIG. 3, each pressing portion 210 has a pair of pressing pieces 211 and a pair of extending portions 213.

[0103] As shown in FIGS. 10 and 12, each of the pair of extending portions 213 is formed in a substantially T shape in a front view. The pair of extending portions 213 are arranged to be symmetric with respect to the left and right in a front view. The pair of extending portions 213 are formed to extend in a direction away from each other in the left-right direction. A groove 214 that penetrates the cover 21 in the front-rear direction is formed in the peripheral region of each extending portion 213. As a result, the tip portion 213A of each extending portion 213 can move back and forth with the base as a fulcrum.

[0104] As shown in FIG. 3, each extension portion 213 extends obliquely forward so as to protrude forward from the base toward the tip portion 213A. Therefore, when the user presses the operation surface 31A (the surface 40) of the operation handle 3 with a fingertip or the like, an appropriate stress is received from the side of the extension portion 213. As a result, the operation feeling is improved.

[0105] Each tip portion 213A has a block shape that is long in the vertical direction. The pressing piece 211 protrudes rearward from the rear surface of the tip portion 213A.

[0106] For example, when the vicinity of the right side of the operation surface 31A (the surface 40) of a certain operation handle 3 is pressed, a pair of right contact portions 334 on the rear surface of the lid portion 33 of the operation handle 3 transmit the pressing force to the surface of the tip portion 213A of the right extension portion 213. As a result, the right extension portion 213 bends rearward due to elastic deformation, its tip portion 213A is displaced rearward, and the tip of the pressing piece 211 presses the right push button switch 6.

[0107] Similarly, when the vicinity of the left side of the operation surface 31A (the surface 40) of a certain operation handle 3 is pressed, a pair of left contact portions 334 on the rear surface of the lid portion 33 of the operation handle 3 transmit the pressing force to the surface of the tip portion 213A of the left extension portion 213. As a result, the left extension portion 213 bends rearward due to elastic deformation, its tip portion 213A is displaced rearward, and the tip of the pressing piece 211 presses the left push button switch 6.

[0108] When the user's pressing operation is finished, the extension portion 213 that has received the pressing force elastically returns, and the "pressing" of the push button switch 6 by its tip portion 213A is released. In addition, the elastically returned extension portion 213 pushes the contact portion 334 forward, so that the operation handle 3 returns to the position before being pressed.

[0109] Further, the cover 21 has one or a plurality (here, a total of 16) of locking holes 212 (see FIG. 10). Each locking hole 212 penetrates the cover 21 in the front-rear direction. Each locking hole 212 is formed in a slit shape. Each locking hole 212 is long in the vertical direction.

[0110] The 16 locking holes 212 are divided into two columns of 8 each on the left and right in the front view of the front surface 21A. The 8 locking holes 212 in the right column are arranged in a single row in the vertical direction near the right end of the front surface 21A. The 8 locking holes 212 in the left column are arranged in a single row in the vertical direction near the left end of the front surface 21A.

[0111] Hereinafter, the 8 locking holes 212 in each of the right column and the left column may be referred to as locking hole 212A, locking hole 212B, locking hole 212C, locking hole 212D, locking hole 212E, locking hole 212F, locking hole 212G, and locking hole 212H in order from the top (see FIG. 10).

[0112] Four locking pieces 3100 provided on the main body portion 31 of the first operation handle 3A are respectively inserted into the left and right locking holes 212A and the left and right locking holes 212B.

[0113] Four locking pieces 3100 provided on the main body portion 31 of the second operation handle 3B are respectively inserted into the left and right locking holes 212C and the left and right locking holes 212D.

[0114] Four locking pieces 3100 provided on the main body portion 31 of the third operation handle 3C are respectively inserted into the left and right locking holes 212E and the left and right locking holes 212F.

[0115] Four locking pieces 3100 provided on the main body portion 31 of the fourth operation handle 3D are respectively inserted into the left and right locking holes 212G and the left and right locking holes 212H.

[0116] Further, as shown in FIGS. 3, 7, 10, and 13A, the cover 21 has one or a plurality (here, a total of 8) of housing-side openings 20. Each housing-side opening 20 penetrates the cover 21 in the front-rear direction. Each housing-side opening 20 is formed in a slit shape. Each housing-side opening 20 is long in the vertical direction.

[0117] As shown in Fig. 10, the eight housing-side openings 20 are arranged in two rows of four each on the left and right in the front view of the front surface 21A. The four housing-side openings 20 in the right row are arranged vertically between the eight locking holes 212A to 212H in the right row and the four pressing parts 210 arranged in the center in the front view of the front surface 21A. Also, the four housing-side openings 20 in the left row are arranged in a single vertical row between the eight locking holes 212A to 212H in the left row and the four pressing parts 210 arranged in the center in the front view of the front surface 21A.

[0118] Each of the four operating handles 3 is arranged to cover the corresponding two left and right housing-side openings 20. That is, the operating handle 3 is arranged to cover the housing-side opening 20.

[0119] Hereinafter, the four housing-side openings 20 in each of the right row and the left row may be referred to as opening 20A, opening 20B, opening 20C, and opening 20D in order from the top (see Fig. 10).

[0120] The first operating handle 3A covers the left and right openings 20A. In particular, in the front view, the right-side opening 20A is arranged so as to overlap at least a part (here, generally all) of the right-side first opening 301 of the opening 30 of the first operating handle 3A. Also, in the front view, the left-side opening 20A is arranged so as to overlap at least a part (here, generally all) of the left-side second opening 302 of the opening 30 of the first operating handle 3A.

[0121] The second operating handle 3B covers the left and right openings 20B. In particular, in the front view, the right-side opening 20B is arranged so as to overlap at least a part (here, generally all) of the right-side first opening 301 of the opening 30 of the second operating handle 3B. Also, in the front view, the left-side opening 20B is arranged so as to overlap at least a part (here, generally all) of the left-side second opening 302 of the opening 30 of the second operating handle 3B.

[0122] The third operation handle 3C covers the left and right openings 20C. In particular, in a front view, the right opening 20C is arranged so as to overlap at least a part (here, generally all) of the right first opening 301 of the opening 30 of the third operation handle 3C. Also, in a front view, the left opening 20C is arranged so as to overlap at least a part (here, generally all) of the left second opening 302 of the opening 30 of the third operation handle 3C.

[0123] The fourth operation handle 3D covers the left and right openings 20D. In particular, in a front view, the right opening 20D is arranged so as to overlap at least a part (here, generally all) of the right first opening 301 of the opening 30 of the fourth operation handle 3D. Also, in a front view, the left opening 20D is arranged so as to overlap at least a part (here, generally all) of the left second opening 302 of the opening 30 of the fourth operation handle 3D.

[0124] Also, as shown in FIG. 12, the cover 21 has a pair of first protrusions 215 (a total of four) each having a hole portion 215A at each of its upper end portion and lower end portion. Each first protrusion 215 protrudes toward the case 22. In FIG. 12, only a pair of the first protrusions 215 at the lower end portion of the cover 21 among the four first protrusions 215 are shown.

[0125] On the other hand, the case 22 is also provided with four claw portions 225. The cover 21 is assembled to the case 22 by the four claw portions 225 being respectively caught one-to-one in the hole portions 215A of the four first protrusions 215.

[0126] Also, as described above, a first rib 218 (see FIG. 18) is formed on the back surface 21B (see FIG. 18) of the cover 21. The first rib 218 is located at a position overlapping with the quick-connection terminal block 8 (see FIG. 18) connected to the second mounting surface 7B (see FIG. 18) of the substrate 7 with the substrate 7 interposed therebetween. By the first rib 218 supporting the first mounting surface 7A side of the substrate 7, deformation of the substrate 7 that occurs during the wiring operation to the quick-connection terminal block 8 is suppressed.

[0127] Further, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 12, the cover 21 has a pair of second protrusions 216 (a total of four) at each of its right and left ends. Each second protrusion 216 protrudes toward the case 22. In FIG. 12, only a pair of second protrusions 216 at the right end of the cover 21 out of the four second protrusions 216 are shown. A pair of mounting claws 216A (see FIG. 12) are provided on both sides adjacent to each second protrusion 216. A total of eight mounting claws 216A are provided throughout the cover 21. By hooking the eight mounting claws 216A on a plurality of mounting holes 51 (see FIG. 4) provided in the mounting frame 5, the entire housing 2 is attached to the mounting frame 5.

[0128] As shown in FIG. 12, the case 22 is formed in a rectangular box shape with an open front surface. The case 22 is substantially the same shape as the substrate 7 in a front view and is formed with slightly larger dimensions than the substrate 7.

[0129] The case 22 has a plurality of prismatic protrusions 221 (see FIG. 12) at its peripheral edge 22B. The plurality of protrusions 221 come into contact with the periphery of the substrate 7 to stably position the substrate 7 in the up, down, left, and right directions.

[0130] Further, the case 22 has two cylindrical insertion protrusions 222 (see FIGS. 2 and 12) protruding from its bottom surface 22A. The two insertion protrusions 222 are respectively inserted into two positioning holes 71 provided in the substrate 7 to stably position the substrate 7 in the up, down, left, and right directions.

[0131] Further, the case 22 has a plurality of cylindrical second ribs 223 (see FIGS. 3 and 19) protruding from its bottom surface 22A. The plurality of second ribs 223 come into contact with the back surface of the substrate 7 to stably position the substrate 7 in the rear direction. Also, the plurality of second ribs 223 attempt to suppress deformation of the substrate 7 according to the force applied from the switch 6 to the substrate 7 in response to depression of the switch 6.

[0132] Further, as described above, the case 22 has four claw portions 225 (see FIG. 12) that are respectively caught by four hole portions 215A (see FIG. 12) of the cover 21 on the outer surfaces of the upper and lower ends at its peripheral portion 22B (see FIG. 12).

[0133] (2-2-3) Substrate and Mounted Components The substrate 7 is a single printed wiring board. The substrate 7 has a first mounting surface 7A (front surface) and a second mounting surface 7B (back surface) opposite to the first mounting surface 7A. A plurality of electronic components (mounted components) are mounted on the first mounting surface 7A and the second mounting surface 7B. The plurality of electronic components include eight push-button switches 6, eight light-emitting groups G1, two setting communication parts 16 (having a communication light-emitting part X1 and a communication light-receiving part Y1), and a quick-connection terminal block 8. Further, the plurality of electronic components include electronic components constituting the signal processing part 15, electronic components constituting the communication part 17, electronic components constituting the storage part 18, and electronic components constituting the power supply part 19, etc.

[0134] As shown in FIG. 2, the eight push-button switches 6 are provided on the substrate 7. In a front view of the first mounting surface 7A (front surface), the eight push-button switches 6 are divided into two rows of four each and arranged in the vertical direction. The eight push-button switches 6 are switches having the same structure as each other. In the present embodiment, each push-button switch 6 is a so-called tact switch that turns on when pressed and turns off when released. The eight push-button switches 6 are mounted on the first mounting surface 7A (front surface).

[0135] Hereinafter, the four push-button switches 6 in the right column may be referred to as "first push-button switches 61", and the four push-button switches 6 in the left column may be referred to as "second push-button switches 62".

[0136] Hereinafter, the first push button switch 61 and the second push button switch 62 in the first row from the top may be collectively referred to as the "first switch group 6A", and the first push button switch 61 and the second push button switch 62 in the second row from the top may be collectively referred to as the "second switch group 6B" (see Fig. 2). Also, the first push button switch 61 and the second push button switch 62 in the third row from the top may be collectively referred to as the "third switch group 6C", and the first push button switch 61 and the second push button switch 62 in the fourth row from the top may be collectively referred to as the "fourth switch group 6D" (see Fig. 2).

[0137] The first switch group 6A is arranged corresponding to the first operation handle 3A. In the first operation handle 3A, when the vicinity of the right end of the operation surface 31A (the front surface 40) receives a pressing operation, the first push button switch 61 of the first switch group 6A is turned on, and when the vicinity of the left end of the operation surface 31A (the front surface 40) receives a pressing operation, the second push button switch 62 of the first switch group 6A is turned on.

[0138] The second switch group 6B is arranged corresponding to the second operation handle 3B. In the second operation handle 3B, when the vicinity of the right end of the operation surface 31A (the front surface 40) receives a pressing operation, the first push button switch 61 of the second switch group 6B is turned on, and when the vicinity of the left end of the operation surface 31A (the front surface 40) receives a pressing operation, the second push button switch 62 of the second switch group 6B is turned on.

[0139] The third switch group 6C is arranged corresponding to the third operation handle 3C. In the third operation handle 3C, when the vicinity of the right end of the operation surface 31A (the front surface 40) receives a pressing operation, the first push button switch 61 of the third switch group 6C is turned on, and when the vicinity of the left end of the operation surface 31A (the front surface 40) receives a pressing operation, the second push button switch 62 of the third switch group 6C is turned on.

[0140] The fourth switch group 6D is arranged corresponding to the fourth operation handle 3D. In the fourth operation handle 3D, when the vicinity of the right end of the operation surface 31A (the surface 40) receives a pressing operation, the first push button switch 61 of the fourth switch group 6D is turned on, and when the vicinity of the left end of the operation surface 31A (the surface 40) receives a pressing operation, the second push button switch 62 of the fourth switch group 6D is turned on.

[0141] Each time the operation handle 3 receives a pressing operation and the corresponding push button switch 6 is turned on, communication is performed between the communication unit 17 of the operating device 1 and the communication device 111, and the load address corresponding to the pressed push button switch 6 is transmitted to the communication device 111. Also, the communication unit 17 receives a state signal regarding the state of the load L1.

[0142] As shown in FIG. 2, the eight light emitting groups G1 are provided on the substrate 7. Each light emitting group G1 has a first light emitting part 11 and a second light emitting part 12. That is, the operating device 1 includes the first light emitting part 11 and the second light emitting part 12. Each of the first light emitting part 11 and the second light emitting part 12 emits visible light. In other words, each light emitting group G1 constitutes a display light emitting part 10 that emits visible light.

[0143] The first light emitting part 11 and the second light emitting part 12 of each light emitting group G1 are arranged adjacent to each other vertically in the order of the second light emitting part 12 and the first light emitting part 11 from top to bottom.

[0144] Hereinafter, the left and right light emitting groups G1 in the first row from the top may be referred to as "first display light emitting part 10A", and the left and right light emitting groups G1 in the second row from the top may be referred to as "second display light emitting part 10B" (see FIG. 2). Also, the left and right light emitting groups G1 in the third row from the top may be referred to as "third display light emitting part 10C", and the left and right light emitting groups G1 in the fourth row from the top may be referred to as "fourth display light emitting part 10D" (see FIG. 2).

[0145] The first light emitting unit 11 may include one or more light emitting elements and a lens unit that covers the light emitting elements. The light emitting elements are, for example, LED (Light Emitting Diode) elements. The first light emitting unit 11 is, for example, a packaged LED module and is mounted on the first mounting surface 7A (front surface).

[0146] When the state of the load L1 is in the first state in the state signal received by the communication unit 17, the first light emitting unit 11 emits light in a specific color other than white. Here, as an example, the specific color is a warm color and is red. For example, the first light emitting unit 11 includes one or more red LED elements. However, the specific color is not limited to red as long as it is other than white. The specific color may be a warm color and green. Also, the specific color is not limited to warm colors. The specific color may be a cool color. In other words, the specific color may be a warm color or a cool color.

[0147] The second light emitting unit 12 may include one or more light emitting elements and a lens unit that covers the light emitting elements. The light emitting elements are, for example, LED elements. The second light emitting unit 12 is, for example, a packaged LED module and is mounted on the first mounting surface 7A (front surface).

[0148] When the state of the load L1 is in a second state different from the first state in the state signal received by the communication unit 17, the second light emitting unit 12 emits white light. The second light emitting unit 12 may include, for example, red, green, and blue LED elements, and white light may be radiated from the lens unit by a combination of the emission colors of these LED elements. Alternatively, the second light emitting unit 12 may generate white light using a phosphor. For example, the second light emitting unit 12 includes a blue LED element and a yellow phosphor, and white light may be radiated from the lens unit by a combination of blue light and yellow light generated by exciting the blue light with the phosphor.

[0149] In this embodiment, the light-emitting unit 10 for display has a plurality of light-emitting units (first light-emitting unit 11 and second light-emitting unit 12) with mutually different emission colors. Therefore, various displays can be performed with a plurality of light-emitting units having mutually different emission colors. Note that although the light-emitting unit 10 for display includes two light-emitting units, it may include three or more light-emitting units having mutually different emission colors.

[0150] The left and right first display light-emitting units 10A are arranged corresponding to the first operation handle 3A. Between the left and right first display light-emitting units 10A, a first push-button switch 61 and a second push-button switch 62 pushed by the first operation handle 3A are located. The right first display light-emitting unit 10A faces the right opening 20A and also faces the first opening 301 of the first operation handle 3A. Visible light from the right first display light-emitting unit 10A is led out to the outside from the optical member 41 on the right side of the first operation handle 3A. The left first display light-emitting unit 10A faces the left opening 20A and also faces the second opening 302 of the first operation handle 3A. Visible light from the left first display light-emitting unit 10A is led out to the outside from the optical member 41 on the left side of the first operation handle 3A.

[0151] The left and right second display light-emitting units 10B are arranged corresponding to the second operation handle 3B. Between the left and right second display light-emitting units 10B, a first push-button switch 61 and a second push-button switch 62 pushed by the second operation handle 3B are located. The right second display light-emitting unit 10B faces the right opening 20B and also faces the first opening 301 of the second operation handle 3B. Visible light from the right second display light-emitting unit 10B is led out to the outside from the optical member 41 on the right side of the second operation handle 3B. The left second display light-emitting unit 10B faces the left opening 20B and also faces the second opening 302 of the second operation handle 3B. Visible light from the left second display light-emitting unit 10B is led out to the outside from the optical member 41 on the left side of the second operation handle 3B.

[0152] The left and right third display light-emitting units 10C are arranged corresponding to the third operation handle 3C. Between the left and right third display light-emitting units 10C, a first push-button switch 61 and a second push-button switch 62 that are pushed by the third operation handle 3C are located. The right third display light-emitting unit 10C faces the right opening 20C and further faces the first opening 301 of the third operation handle 3C. Visible light from the right third display light-emitting unit 10C is led out to the outside from the optical member 41 on the right side of the third operation handle 3C. The left third display light-emitting unit 10C faces the left opening 20C and further faces the second opening 302 of the third operation handle 3C. Visible light from the left third display light-emitting unit 10C is led out to the outside from the optical member 41 on the left side of the third operation handle 3C.

[0153] The left and right fourth display light-emitting units 10D are arranged corresponding to the fourth operation handle 3D. Between the left and right fourth display light-emitting units 10D, a first push-button switch 61 and a second push-button switch 62 that are pushed by the fourth operation handle 3D are located. The right fourth display light-emitting unit 10D faces the right opening 20D and further faces the first opening 301 of the fourth operation handle 3D. Visible light from the right fourth display light-emitting unit 10D is led out to the outside from the optical member 41 on the right side of the fourth operation handle 3D. The left fourth display light-emitting unit 10D faces the left opening 20D and further faces the second opening 302 of the fourth operation handle 3D. Visible light from the left fourth display light-emitting unit 10D is led out to the outside from the optical member 41 on the left side of the fourth operation handle 3D.

[0154] Two communication light-emitting units X1 (see FIG. 5) emit communication light. The communication light is, for example, infrared light. The communication light-emitting unit X1 can emit infrared rays. However, the communication light may also be visible light. Each communication light-emitting unit X1 has an infrared light-emitting diode as an infrared emitter. Each communication light-emitting unit X1 is, for example, a package-type module and is mounted on the first mounting surface 7A (front surface). Here, the two communication light-emitting units X1 are modules having the same structure as each other.

[0155] In this embodiment, the two communication light-emitting units X1 are arranged separately on the left and right below the first mounting surface 7A so as to correspond to the fourth operation handle 3D.

[0156] Specifically, the right communication light-emitting unit X1 is arranged adjacent to and below the first light-emitting unit 11 of the right fourth display light-emitting unit 10D, faces the right opening 20D, and further faces the first opening 301 of the fourth operation handle 3D. The infrared light emitted by the right communication light-emitting unit X1 is led out to the outside from the optical member 41 on the right side of the fourth operation handle 3D.

[0157] The left communication light-emitting unit X1 is arranged adjacent to and below the first light-emitting unit 11 of the left fourth display light-emitting unit 10D, faces the left opening 20D, and further faces the second opening 302 of the fourth operation handle 3D. The infrared light emitted by the left communication light-emitting unit X1 is led out to the outside from the optical member 41 on the left side of the fourth operation handle 3D.

[0158] As a result, the infrared signal transmitted from the setting communication unit 16 via the infrared light-emitting diode of each communication light-emitting unit X1 can be received by the setting device 500 (see FIG. 16).

[0159] The two communication light-receiving units Y1 (see FIG. 5) receive communication light. The communication light is, for example, infrared light. The communication light-receiving unit Y1 can receive infrared light. However, the communication light may also be visible light. Each communication light-receiving unit Y1 includes an infrared light-receiving element and an optical lens unit that covers the infrared light-receiving element. Each communication light-receiving unit Y1 is, for example, a package-type module and is mounted on the first mounting surface 7A (front surface). Here, the two communication light-receiving units Y1 are modules having the same structure as each other. The infrared light-receiving element receives the infrared light condensed by the optical lens unit and converts it into an electrical signal. The infrared signal transmitted from the setting device 500 can be received by the setting communication unit 16 via the infrared light-receiving element.

[0160] In this embodiment, the two communication light-receiving units Y1 are arranged separately on the left and right below the first mounting surface 7A so as to correspond to the fourth operation handle 3D.

[0161] Specifically, the right communication light-receiving unit Y1 is disposed adjacent to and above the second light-emitting unit 12 of the right fourth display light-emitting unit 10D, faces the right opening 20D, and also faces the first opening 301 of the fourth operation handle 3D. The infrared light (infrared signal) transmitted from the setter 500 toward the first opening 301 of the fourth operation handle 3D passes through the optical member 41 on the right side of the fourth operation handle 3D and is received by the right communication light-receiving unit Y1.

[0162] The left communication light-receiving unit Y1 is disposed adjacent to and above the second light-emitting unit 12 of the left fourth display light-emitting unit 10D, faces the left opening 20D, and also faces the second opening 302 of the fourth operation handle 3D. The infrared light (infrared signal) transmitted from the setter 500 toward the second opening 302 of the fourth operation handle 3D passes through the optical member 41 on the left side of the fourth operation handle 3D and is received by the left communication light-receiving unit Y1.

[0163] In short, the right communication light-receiving unit Y1, the second light-emitting unit 12 of the right fourth display light-emitting unit 10D, the first light-emitting unit 11, and the right communication light-emitting unit X1 are arranged in a vertical row in this order from top to bottom, and all of them face the right opening 20D. In other words, the right fourth display light-emitting unit 10D is disposed between the right communication light-receiving unit Y1 and the right communication light-emitting unit X1.

[0164] Similarly, the left communication light-receiving unit Y1, the second light-emitting unit 12 of the left fourth display light-emitting unit 10D, the first light-emitting unit 11, and the left communication light-emitting unit X1 are arranged in a vertical row in this order from top to bottom, and all of them face the left opening 20D. In other words, the left fourth display light-emitting unit 10D is disposed between the left communication light-receiving unit Y1 and the left communication light-emitting unit X1.

[0165] Thus, in this embodiment, the light emitted by the communication light-emitting unit X1, the light received by the communication light-receiving unit Y1, and the light emitted by the display light-emitting unit 10 can pass through the housing-side opening 20. Therefore, compared with the case where an opening through which the light emitted by the communication light-emitting unit X1, the light received by the communication light-receiving unit Y1, and the light emitted by the display light-emitting unit 10 can pass is provided at a portion other than the operation surface 31A of the operation handle 3 on the surface of the operating device 1, the operation surface 31A of the operation handle 3 can be enlarged. Thus, it becomes possible to enlarge the operation surface 31A of the operation handle 3, and an operating device 1 with improved operability can be realized. Further, the display light-emitting unit 10 is located between the communication light-receiving unit Y1 and the communication light-emitting unit X1. Therefore, there is an advantage that the display light-emitting unit 10 can be arranged at the center of the handle-side opening 30X.

[0166] The operating device 1 of this embodiment includes a plurality of operation handles 3. The plurality of operation handles 3 are arranged side by side in the longitudinal direction of the operating device 1. On the substrate 7, a display light-emitting unit 10 and a push-button switch 6 are provided at positions corresponding to each of the plurality of operation handles 3, and a communication light-emitting unit X1 and a communication light-receiving unit Y1 are provided at positions corresponding to at least one of the plurality of operation handles 3. Therefore, in this embodiment, it is possible to operate a plurality of push-button switches 6 with one operating device 1.

[0167] (2-2-4) Mounting Frame The mounting frame 5 is a member to which the housing 2 is attached. As shown in FIG. 4, the mounting frame 5 is formed in a rectangular frame shape having an opening 50 for accommodating the housing 2 at its central portion. The mounting frame 5 is made of, for example, metal. The mounting frame 5 has the same dimensions as the mounting frame for the three-piece switch as described above. The mounting frame 5 has a plurality of mounting holes 51 (see FIG. 4) on which the eight mounting claws 216A of the housing 2 are hooked as described above. Note that the mounting frame 5 may not be a component of the operating device 1.

[0168] The mounting frame 5 can be screwed to a mounting member such as a switch box. That is, for example, a construction hole is formed in an object to be mounted such as a wall, and a mounting member such as an embedded switch box is arranged on the back side (inside the wall) of the object to be mounted. The operating device 1 is attached to the object to be mounted through the construction hole by screwing the mounting frame 5 to the mounting member. A decorative plate K1 (see FIG. 16) can be attached around the front surface of the operating device 1 so as to hide the construction hole or the like.

[0169] (2-2-5) Quick-connect terminals and quick-connect terminal blocks As described above, the quick-connect terminals 81 and 82 are mounted on the upper end side of the second mounting surface 7B (back surface) of the substrate 7 (see FIGS. 6, 17, and 18). As shown in FIG. 6, the quick-connect terminal block 8 houses four quick-connect terminals 81 and 82 inside. Each of the four quick-connect terminals 81 and 82 is a terminal for connecting one electric wire. The quick-connect terminal block 8 has four insertion holes 80 (see FIGS. 6, 17, and 18) for introducing the four electric wires respectively wired from the switch box side to the four quick-connect terminals 81 and 82. The four insertion holes 80 are arranged in the short side direction of the substrate 7 (or the housing 2). Each of the four insertion holes 80 faces downward in the vertical direction. A pair of electric wires constituting the transmission line 112 are respectively connected to a pair of quick-connect terminals 81 and a pair of quick-connect terminals 82. The pair of quick-connect terminals 81 and the pair of quick-connect terminals 82 are electrically connected inside the operating device 1. For example, the pair of quick-connect terminals 82 are used as terminals for feed wiring.

[0170] The back surface 22C of the case 22 (see FIGS. 6, 17, and 18) has an opening 220 for exposing the quick-connect terminal block 8 to the outside of the housing 2. The quick-connect terminal block 8 is inserted into the opening 220 of the case 22 in a state of being mounted on the substrate 7 and is exposed to the outside so as to protrude rearward from the back surface 22C.

[0171] On the first mounting surface 7A of the substrate 7, a plurality of switches 6 are provided in the longitudinal direction of the substrate 7 (housing 2) (see FIG. 19). The quick-connect terminal block 8 is connected to a position corresponding to between two adjacent switches 6 among the plurality of switches 6 provided on the first mounting surface 7A on the second mounting surface 7B of the substrate 7 (see FIG. 18).

[0172] (2-3) Setter The setter 500 has, for example, a microcomputer having a processor and a memory. Then, by the processor executing the program stored in the memory, the microcomputer functions as the setter 500. The program executed by the processor is recorded in advance in the memory of the microcomputer here, but may be recorded and provided on a non-transitory recording medium such as a memory card, or may be provided through a telecommunication line such as the Internet.

[0173] The setter 500 (dedicated remote control) has an elongated cylindrical housing as shown in FIG. 16. The setter 500 is battery-driven, for example. On one surface of the housing of the setter 500, an operation unit 501 for receiving operations related to the setting of the load address is provided. The operation unit 501 has a plurality of operation buttons. The operation unit 501 is provided on the first end side in the longitudinal direction of the housing. Also, at the second end in the longitudinal direction of the housing of the setter 500, a communication module 502 for performing infrared communication with the operator 1 is housed. The communication module 502 includes an infrared light emitting element for transmitting infrared rays and an infrared light receiving element for receiving infrared rays.

[0174] (2-4) Operations of the operator Hereinafter, the operations of the operator 1 will be described separately for the load address setting operation, the first operation, and the second operation.

[0175] [Load address setting operation] The user can set the load address to the plurality of push buttons 6 provided in the operator 1 using the setter 500.

[0176] In this embodiment, the operating device 1 is provided with eight push-button switches 6, and separate load addresses can be set for the four push-button switches 6 on the right side and the four push-button switches 6 on the left side, respectively.

[0177] When setting the load address of the right push-button switch 6, the user uses the setter 500 to perform the load address setting operation with the second end of the housing in which the communication module 502 is accommodated facing the right optical member 41. After the user operates the operation unit 501 to input the load address and then operates the load address transmission button, the load address is transmitted from the communication module 502 to the operating device 1 as an infrared signal. The infrared signal transmitted from the communication module 502 is received by the right communication light receiving unit Y1 through the right optical member 41. When the signal processing unit 15 of the operating device 1 receives the infrared signal from the setter 500 by the right communication light receiving unit Y1, it sets the load address of the right push-button switch 6 based on the received infrared signal and stores it in the storage unit 18.

[0178] When setting the load address of the left push-button switch 6, the user uses the setter 500 to perform the load address setting operation with the second end of the housing in which the communication module 502 is accommodated facing the left optical member 41. After the user operates the operation unit 501 to input the load address and then operates the load address transmission button, the load address is transmitted from the communication module 502 to the operating device 1 as an infrared signal. The infrared signal transmitted from the communication module 502 is received by the left communication light receiving unit Y1 through the left optical member 41. When the signal processing unit 15 of the operating device 1 receives the infrared signal from the setter 500 by the left communication light receiving unit Y1, it sets the load address of the left push-button switch 6 based on the received infrared signal and stores it in the storage unit 18.

[0179] [First Operation (Right Operation of the Operation Unit)] First, the first operation when the user presses (operates) near the right end of the operation surface 31A (surface 40) of any one of the four operation handles 3 (for example, the fourth operation handle 3D) will be described.

[0180] When the vicinity of the right end of the operation surface 31A (surface 40) of the fourth operation handle 3D is pressed, the first push button switch 61 corresponding to the fourth operation handle 3D is turned on. As a result, the operating device 1 transmits an operation signal to the communication device 111 in response to the first push button switch 61 corresponding to the fourth operation handle 3D being turned on (once). When the user performs a series of operations of pressing the operation surface 31A (surface 40), tilting the operation surface 31A (surface 40), pressing the first push button switch 61 with the pressing piece 211, and releasing the pressing so that the operation surface 31A (surface 40) returns to its original state, an operation signal is transmitted once as "one-time on operation of the push button switch 6".

[0181] When the communication device 111 receives the operation signal, if the load L1 associated with the first push button switch 61 is in the second state (here, the off state), it performs control to switch the load L1 from the second state to the first state (here, the on state) in response to the reception of the operation signal. Also, when the communication device 111 receives the operation signal and the load L1 associated with the first push button switch 61 is in the first state, it performs control to switch the load L1 from the first state to the second state in response to the reception of the operation signal. When the communication device 111 receives state information regarding the state of the load L1 (after switching) from the control terminal device 9 associated with the first push button switch 61, it returns this state information to the operating device 1 that is the transmission source of the operation signal.

[0182] The operating device 1 that is the transmission source of the operation signal receives a state signal regarding the state of the load L1 from the communication device 111.

[0183] When the operating device 1, which is the source of the operation signal, receives a status signal indicating that the status of the load L1 is in the first state (on state), the first light-emitting unit 11 on the right side (corresponding to the fourth operation handle 3D) emits light (red light emission in this case). As a result, the red light passes through the right opening 20D (housing-side opening 20) and the right first opening 301 (handle-side opening 30X), and is led out from the right optical member 41. That is, the vicinity of the right end of the fourth operation handle 3D glows red. In this embodiment, at this time, the second light-emitting unit 12 on the right side does not emit light. That is, when the vicinity of the right end of the fourth operation handle 3D is glowing red, it does not glow white. However, the second light-emitting unit 12 may emit light slightly to such an extent that a person cannot visually recognize that it is emitting light with the naked eye. In short, the second light-emitting unit 12 does not emit light (or may emit light with a lower light output than in the case of the second state) when the status of the load L1 is in the first state.

[0184] On the other hand, when the operating device 1, which is the source of the operation signal, receives a status signal indicating that the status of the load L1 is in the second state (off state), the second light-emitting unit 12 on the right side (corresponding to the fourth operation handle 3D) emits light (white light emission). As a result, the white light passes through the right opening 20D (housing-side opening 20) and the right first opening 301 (handle-side opening 30X), and is led out from the right optical member 41. That is, the vicinity of the right end of the fourth operation handle 3D glows white. In this embodiment, at this time, the first light-emitting unit 11 on the right side does not emit light. That is, when the vicinity of the right end of the fourth operation handle 3D is glowing white, it does not glow red. However, the first light-emitting unit 11 may emit light slightly to such an extent that a person cannot visually recognize that it is emitting light with the naked eye. In short, the first light-emitting unit 11 does not emit light (or may emit light with a lower light output than in the case of the first state) when the status of the load L1 is in the second state.

[0185] In this way, each housing-side opening 20 can emit light of a specific color emitted from the corresponding first light-emitting unit 11 and white light emitted from the corresponding second light-emitting unit 12. Therefore, for example, it is easier to reduce the size of the operating device 1 compared to the case where the light from the first light-emitting unit 11 and the light from the second light-emitting unit 12 are emitted from separate openings.

[0186] [Second Operation (Left - hand Operation of the Operation Unit)] Next, a second operation will be described when the user presses (operates) near the left end of the operation surface 31A (surface 40) of any one of the four operation handles 3 (for example, the fourth operation handle 3D).

[0187] When the vicinity of the left end of the operation surface 31A (surface 40) of the fourth operation handle 3D is pressed, the second push - button switch 62 corresponding to the fourth operation handle 3D turns on. As a result, the operating device 1 transmits an operation signal to the communication device 111 in response to the second push - button switch 62 corresponding to the fourth operation handle 3D being turned on (once).

[0188] When the communication device 111 receives the operation signal, if the load L1 associated with the second push - button switch 62 is in the second state (here, the off state), it performs control to switch the load L1 from the second state to the first state (here, the on state) in response to the reception of the operation signal. Also, when the communication device 111 receives the operation signal and the load L1 associated with the second push - button switch 62 is in the first state, it performs control to switch the load L1 from the first state to the second state in response to the reception of the operation signal. When the communication device 111 receives state information regarding the state of the load L1 (after switching) from the control terminal 9 associated with the second push - button switch 62, it returns this state information to the operating device 1 that is the source of the operation signal.

[0189] The operating device 1 that is the source of the operation signal receives a state signal regarding the state of the load L1 from the communication device 111.

[0190] When the state of the load L1 in the received state signal is the first state (on state), the operator 1 causes the first light-emitting part 11 on the left side (corresponding to the fourth operation handle 3D) to emit light (red light emission here). As a result, the red light passes through the left opening 20D (housing-side opening 20) and the left second opening 302 (handle-side opening 30X), and is led out from the left optical member 41. That is, the vicinity of the left end of the fourth operation handle 3D lights up red. In the present embodiment, at this time, the second light-emitting part 12 on the left side does not emit light (or may emit light slightly).

[0191] On the other hand, when the state of the load L1 in the received state signal is the second state (off state), the operator 1 causes the second light-emitting part 12 on the left side (corresponding to the fourth operation handle 3D) to emit light (white light emission). As a result, the white light passes through the left opening 20D (housing-side opening 20) and the left second opening 302 (handle-side opening 30X), and is led out from the left optical member 41. That is, the vicinity of the left end of the fourth operation handle 3D lights up white. In the present embodiment, at this time, the first light-emitting part 11 on the left side does not emit light (or may emit light slightly).

[0192] In this way, in the operator 1, depending on whether one end side or the other end side of one operation handle 3 is pressed, either one of the two different push-button switches 6 is turned on, and the state of the load L1 associated with the turned-on push-button switch 6 can be individually switched.

[0193] (2-5) Another example of the housing-side opening By the way, in the examples shown in FIGS. 10 and 13A, the housing-side opening 20 is configured as one opening. However, for example, as shown in FIG. 13C, the housing-side opening 20 may have a first opening 201 and a second opening 202. The first opening 201 may emit light of a specific color emitted from the first light-emitting part 11. The second opening 202 may emit white light emitted from the second light-emitting part 12. In the example of FIG. 13C, since the light of a specific color and the white light are emitted from separate openings (201, 202), the state of the load L1 can be visually judged more easily.

[0194] (3) Variation The above embodiment is only one of various embodiments of the present disclosure. If the object of the present disclosure can be achieved, various changes can be made according to the design and the like. Hereinafter, variations of the above embodiment will be listed. The above embodiment, the variations described below, and between each variation can be applied in appropriate combination.

[0195] (3-1) Variation 1 Hereinafter, an operating device 1A, which is a variation of the operating device 1 according to the above embodiment, will be described with reference to FIGS. 20 to 28B. In the following, for the operating device 1A according to this variation (Variation 1), the same reference numerals may be given to the components similar to the components of the operating device 1, and the description thereof may be omitted as appropriate.

[0196] The operating device 1 includes four operating handles 3 corresponding to a sheathed type operating handle, while the operating device 1A is different from the operating device 1 in that it includes four operating handles 3 corresponding to a cantilever type operating handle. Also, the number of push button switches 6 and the like provided in the operating device 1A is different from that of the operating device 1. In the following, when the four operating handles 3 of the operating device 1A are described separately from each other, they may be referred to as the first operating handle 3E, the second operating handle 3F, the third operating handle 3G, and the fourth operating handle 3H in order from the top (see FIG. 20).

[0197] Hereinafter, the configuration of the operating device 1A (operating terminal) will be described in detail. In the following, based on the arrows in the vertical, horizontal, and front-rear directions without the entity shown in FIGS. 20 and 22, the direction of the operating device 1A may be defined for the description, but it is not intended to limit the usage direction of the operating device 1A.

[0198] The operator 1A includes a housing 2, one or more (four in FIG. 20) operation handles 3, one or more (four in FIG. 21) push-button switches 6, a substrate 7, a mounting frame 5, and a quick-connect terminal block 8 (see FIG. 22). Also, similar to the operator 1, the operator 1A includes a signal processing unit 15, a display light-emitting unit 10 (display unit), a setting communication unit 16, a communication unit 17 that communicates with a communication device 111, a storage unit 18, and a power supply unit 19 (see FIG. 15). Further, the operator 1A includes a pair of first quick-connect terminals 81 and a pair of second quick-connect terminals 82 (see FIG. 15).

[0199] The display light-emitting unit 10 of the operator 1A includes one or more (four in FIG. 21) light-emitting groups G1. As shown in FIG. 21, each light-emitting group G1 includes a first light-emitting unit 11 and a second light-emitting unit 12.

[0200] The setting communication unit 16 of the operator 1A has one or more (one in FIG. 21) communication light-emitting units X1 and one or more (one in FIG. 21) communication light-receiving units Y1. The setting communication unit 16 communicates with a setter 500 (see FIG. 16) for address setting.

[0201] One end (here, the left end) of each operation handle 3 at both the left and right ends is supported by the housing 2, and when the other end (here, the right end) is pressed, the other end is displaced backward with one end as a fulcrum, corresponding to a cantilever-type operation handle. And the number of push-button switches 6 pressed by each operation handle 3 is one (that is, a total of four for the entire operator 1A). One push-button switch 6 corresponding to each operation handle 3 is arranged on the right side on the first mounting surface 7A of the substrate 7.

[0202] Each operation handle 3 receives an operation for switching the state of the load L1. In this modification, each operation handle 3 can switch the state of the corresponding load L1 by turning on the push-button switch 6 arranged on the right side on the first mounting surface 7A. The four operation handles 3 are arranged side by side in the vertical direction in a front view. Each operation handle 3 of this modification includes a main body portion 31, a name plate 32, a lid portion 33, and a light-transmitting cover 4 as shown in FIGS. 22 to 25.

[0203] The main body portion 31 has an opening 30 that is long in the left - right direction when viewed from the front. As shown in FIG. 28B, the opening 30 includes a first opening 301 on the right side and a third opening 303 located in the center when viewed from the front. That is, unlike the operating device 1, the main body portion 31 of this modified example is not provided with a second opening 302 on the left side. The first opening 301 and the third opening 303 are spatially connected. Note that the "handle - side opening 30X" in this modified example corresponds to the first opening 301 on the right side as shown in FIG. 28B. In other words, the operation handle 3 of this modified example has a handle - side opening 30X. Also in this modified example, the handle - side opening 30X is formed in a slit shape and emits light (such as light from the first light - emitting portion 11 and the second light - emitting portion 12) emitted from the housing - side opening 20 of the housing 2. Also in this modified example, the first light - emitting portion 11 and the second light - emitting portion 12 are arranged side by side in the longitudinal direction (here, the vertical direction) of the (corresponding) handle - side opening 30X (see FIG. 28B).

[0204] In this modified example, when the user presses a region near the right end of the operation surface 31A (the front surface 40) of the operation handle 3 with a fingertip or the like, a pressing operation on the operation handle 3 is performed.

[0205] The main body portion 31 has a locking portion 311 corresponding to the mounting portion 3X at the right end of its back surface 31B (see FIGS. 23, 24, and 25). The length of each locking piece 3100 of the locking portion 311 in this modified example is set shorter than that of each locking piece 3100 of the first locking portion 311 of the operating device 1.

[0206] The second locking portion 312 provided at the left end of the back surface 31B in the operating device 1 is not provided in this modified example. Instead, in this modified example, the main body portion 31 has a holding portion 314A corresponding to the mounting portion 3X at the left end of the back surface 31B (see FIGS. 23, 24, and 25).

[0207] The holding part 314A holds the pair of rotating shafts 230A (see FIGS. 23 and 26) of the support part 23A provided on the cover 21 of the housing 2, respectively. The holding part 314A has a depression recessed forward, and the pair of rotating shafts 230A are press-fitted into the depression. As a result, the main body part 31 (that is, the operation handle 3) is supported by the support part 23A, and the right end part of the operation handle 3 can rotate within a predetermined angle range with the pair of rotating shafts 230A as fulcrums (see the arrow in FIG. 27).

[0208] In short, in this modification, the operation handle 3 has an attachment part 3X for attaching to the housing 2, and the attachment part 3X includes the above-described locking part 311 and the holding part 314A.

[0209] The light-transmitting cover 4 of this modification is formed in an L-shaped plate shape as a whole. Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 23 to 25, the light-transmitting cover 4 includes a right optical member 41 that covers the first opening 301 (see FIG. 28B), and a cover member 42 that covers the central third opening 303. That is, the left optical member 41 provided in the operating device 1 is not provided in this modification. The right optical member 41 and the cover member 42 are formed as one continuous integral member, but they may be separate members from each other.

[0210] Among the four operation handles 3, only the fourth operation handle 3H can also pass the light (infrared light) from the communication light-emitting part X1 (see FIG. 21) and the light (infrared light) directed to the communication light-receiving part Y1 (see FIG. 21) through the right optical member 41 in addition to the visible light from the first light-emitting part 11 and the second light-emitting part 12.

[0211] When attaching the operation handle 3 configured as described above to the housing 2, for example, while inserting each locking piece 3100 of the locking part 311 into the corresponding locking hole 212 (see FIG. 26) from the front, the operation handle 3 is pushed backward so that the rotating shaft 230A is fitted into the depression of the holding part 314A. As a result, the main body part 31 is supported by the support part 23A, and each locking piece 3100 is stably positioned within the locking hole 212.

[0212] Even if the main body part 31 is pulled forward, the tip of the locking piece 3100 of the locking part 311 is caught by the periphery of the locking hole 212. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the main body part 31 from coming off the support part 23A. As a result, the operation handle 3 is prevented from falling off the housing 2.

[0213] As shown in FIGS. 26 and 28A, the cover 21 of this modified example has one or a plurality (here, four) of support parts 23A arranged near the left end so as to be arranged in the vertical direction in a front view. As described above, each support part 23A has a pair of rotation shafts 230A that fit into the recess of the corresponding operation handle 3.

[0214] Further, as shown in FIG. 23, the cover 21 of this modified example has one or a plurality (here, four) of pressing parts 210 arranged so as to be arranged in the vertical direction in a front view. The four pressing parts 210 are respectively arranged so as to correspond to the four support parts 23A. Each pressing part 210 transmits a pressing operation from the operation handle 3 supported by the corresponding support part 23A to the right side push button switch 6 (the first push button switch 61). As shown in FIG. 22, each pressing part 210 has an extending part 213 extending rightward and a pressing piece 211 provided on the back side of the tip part 213A. The tip part 213A of each extending part 213 can move back and forth with the base as a fulcrum. As shown in FIG. 22, each extending part 213 extends obliquely so as to protrude forward from the base toward the tip part 213A. Therefore, when the user presses the operation surface 31A (the surface 40) of the operation handle 3 with a fingertip or the like, the user receives an appropriate stress from the side of the extending part 213. As a result, the operation feeling is improved.

[0215] For example, when the vicinity of the right side of the operation surface 31A (the front surface 40) of a certain operation handle 3 is pressed, a pair of right-side contact portions 334 on the back surface of the lid portion 33 of the operation handle 3 transmit the pressing force to the surface of the tip portion 213A of the extending portion 213. As a result, the extending portion 213 bends backward due to elastic deformation, its tip portion 213A is displaced backward, and the tip of the pressing piece 211 presses the right-side push button switch 6. When the user's pressing operation ends, the extending portion 213 that has been pressed elastically returns, and the "pressing" of the push button switch 6 by its tip portion 213A is released. Further, by the elastically returned extending portion 213 pushing the contact portion 334 forward, the operation handle 3 returns to the position before being pressed.

[0216] In addition, the cover 21 of this modification has one or a plurality (here, a total of eight) of locking holes 212 (see FIG. 26). The eight locking holes 212 (212A to 212H) are arranged in a single row in the vertical direction near the right end of the front surface 21A.

[0217] Two locking pieces 3100 provided on the main body portion 31 of the first operation handle 3E are respectively inserted into the locking holes 212A and 212B. Two locking pieces 3100 provided on the main body portion 31 of the second operation handle 3F are respectively inserted into the locking holes 212C and 212D. Two locking pieces 3100 provided on the main body portion 31 of the third operation handle 3G are respectively inserted into the locking holes 212E and 212F. Two locking pieces 3100 provided on the main body portion 31 of the fourth operation handle 3H are respectively inserted into the locking holes 212G and 212H.

[0218] In addition, as shown in Fig. 26, the cover 21 of this modification has one or more (here, a total of four) housing-side openings 20. Each housing-side opening 20 penetrates the cover 21 in the front-rear direction. Each housing-side opening 20 is formed in a slit shape. Each housing-side opening 20 is long in the vertical direction. As shown in Fig. 26, the four housing-side openings 20 (20A to 20D) are arranged vertically between the eight locking holes 212A to 212H in the right row and the four pressing portions 210 arranged in the center in the front view of the front surface 21A. Each of the four operation handles 3 is arranged to cover the corresponding right-side housing-side opening 20. That is, the operation handle 3 is arranged to cover the housing-side opening 20.

[0219] The first operation handle 3E covers the opening 20A. In particular, in the front view, the opening 20A is arranged so as to overlap at least a part (here, generally all) of the first opening 301 on the right side of the first operation handle 3A.

[0220] The second operation handle 3F covers the opening 20B. In particular, in the front view, the opening 20B is arranged so as to overlap at least a part (here, generally all) of the first opening 301 on the right side of the second operation handle 3B.

[0221] The third operation handle 3G covers the opening 20C. In particular, in the front view, the opening 20C is arranged so as to overlap at least a part (here, generally all) of the first opening 301 on the right side of the third operation handle 3G.

[0222] The fourth operation handle 3H covers the opening 20D. In particular, in the front view, the opening 20D is arranged so as to overlap at least a part (here, generally all) of the first opening 301 on the right side of the fourth operation handle 3H.

[0223] The four push-button switches 6 of this modification are provided on the substrate 7 as shown in Fig. 21. The four push-button switches 6 are arranged in a row in the vertical direction at a position closer to the right end in the front view of the first mounting surface 7A (front surface).

[0224] The first push button switch 6 from the top is arranged corresponding to the first operation handle 3E. In the first operation handle 3E, when the vicinity of the right end of the operation surface 31A (the front surface 40) receives a pressing operation, the push button switch 6 is turned on.

[0225] The second push button switch 6 from the top is arranged corresponding to the second operation handle 3F. In the second operation handle 3F, when the vicinity of the right end of the operation surface 31A (the front surface 40) receives a pressing operation, the push button switch 6 is turned on.

[0226] The third push button switch 6 from the top is arranged corresponding to the third operation handle 3G. In the third operation handle 3G, when the vicinity of the right end of the operation surface 31A (the front surface 40) receives a pressing operation, the push button switch 6 is turned on.

[0227] The fourth push button switch 6 from the top is arranged corresponding to the fourth operation handle 3H. In the fourth operation handle 3H, when the vicinity of the right end of the operation surface 31A (the front surface 40) receives a pressing operation, the push button switch 6 is turned on.

[0228] Each time the operation handle 3 receives a pressing operation and the corresponding push button switch 6 is turned on, communication is performed between the communication unit 17 of the operating device 1 and the communication device 111, and the load address corresponding to the pressed push button switch 6 is transmitted to the communication device 111. Further, the communication unit 17 receives a state signal regarding the state of the load L1.

[0229] The four light-emitting groups G1 of the light-emitting unit 10 for display in this modification are provided on the substrate 7 as shown in FIG. 21. Here, the four light-emitting groups G1 are arranged so as to correspond to the four operation handles 3 respectively. That is, one light-emitting group G1 is arranged to correspond to one operation handle 3. The first light-emitting part 11 and the second light-emitting part 12 of each light-emitting group G1 are arranged so as to be aligned in the longitudinal direction (here, the vertical direction) of the (corresponding) housing side opening 20 (see FIGS. 28A and 28B).

[0230] Also in this modified example, when the state of the load L1 is in the first state in the state signal received by the communication unit 17, the first light emitting unit 11 emits light in red (a specific color). However, the specific color is not limited to red as long as it is other than white. The specific color may be a warm color or green. Also, the specific color is not limited to warm colors. The specific color may be a cool color. In other words, the specific color can be a warm color or a cool color.

[0231] Also in this modified example, when the state of the load L1 is in the second state in the state signal received by the communication unit 17, the second light emitting unit 12 emits light in white.

[0232] The first display light emitting unit 10A (see FIG. 21) is arranged corresponding to the first operation handle 3E. The first display light emitting unit 10A faces the opening 20A and also faces the first opening 301 of the first operation handle 3E. The visible light from the first display light emitting unit 10A is led out to the outside from the optical member 41 of the first operation handle 3E.

[0233] The second display light emitting unit 10B (see FIG. 21) is arranged corresponding to the second operation handle 3F. The second display light emitting unit 10B faces the opening 20B and also faces the first opening 301 of the second operation handle 3F. The visible light from the second display light emitting unit 10B is led out to the outside from the optical member 41 of the second operation handle 3F.

[0234] The third display light emitting unit 10C (see FIG. 21) is arranged corresponding to the third operation handle 3G. The third display light emitting unit 10C faces the opening 20C and also faces the first opening 301 of the third operation handle 3G. The visible light from the third display light emitting unit 10C is led out to the outside from the optical member 41 of the third operation handle 3G.

[0235] The fourth display light-emitting unit 10D (see Fig. 21) is arranged corresponding to the fourth operation handle 3H. The fourth display light-emitting unit 10D faces the opening 20D and also faces the first opening 301 of the fourth operation handle 3H. The visible light from the fourth display light-emitting unit 10D is led out to the outside through the optical member 41 of the fourth operation handle 3H.

[0236] One communication light-emitting unit X1 (see Figs. 28A and 28B) of this modification is arranged adjacent to and below the first light-emitting unit 11 of the fourth display light-emitting unit 10D, faces the opening 20D, and also faces the first opening 301 of the fourth operation handle 3H. The infrared light emitted by the communication light-emitting unit X1 is led out to the outside through the optical member 41 of the fourth operation handle 3H. As a result, the infrared signal from the communication light-emitting unit X1 can be received by the setter 500.

[0237] One communication light-receiving unit Y1 (see Figs. 28A and 28B) of this modification is arranged adjacent to and above the second light-emitting unit 12 of the fourth display light-emitting unit 10D, faces the opening 20D, and also faces the first opening 301 of the fourth operation handle 3H. The infrared light (infrared signal) transmitted from the setter 500 toward the first opening 301 of the fourth operation handle 3H can pass through the optical member 41 of the fourth operation handle 3H and be received by the communication light-receiving unit Y1.

[0238] The operation of the operating device 1A in this modification is the same as the operation when the right side of the operation handle 3 is pressed (operated) in the above-described operating device 1, so the description thereof is omitted.

[0239] (3-2) Other modifications The operating device 1, control terminal device 9, communication device 111, setting device 500, etc. in the present disclosure include a computer system. The computer system mainly consists of a processor and a memory as hardware. By the processor executing the program recorded in the memory of the computer system, the functions as the operating device 1, control terminal device 9, communication device 111, setting device 500, etc. in the present disclosure are realized. The program may be pre-recorded in the memory of the computer system, may be provided through a telecommunication line, or may be provided by being recorded on a non-transitory recording medium such as a memory card, optical disk, hard disk drive, etc. that can be read by the computer system. The processor of the computer system is composed of one or more electronic circuits including a semiconductor integrated circuit (IC) or a large-scale integrated circuit (LSI). Here, the integrated circuits such as the IC or LSI have different names depending on the degree of integration, and include integrated circuits called system LSI, VLSI (Very Large Scale Integration), or ULSI (Ultra Large Scale Integration). Furthermore, for an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array) that is programmed after the manufacture of the LSI, or a logic device capable of reconfiguring the bonding relationship inside the LSI or reconfiguring the circuit section inside the LSI, it can also be adopted as a processor. The one or more electronic circuits may be integrated on one chip, or may be provided distributed on a plurality of chips. The plurality of chips may be integrated in one device, or may be provided distributed in a plurality of devices. The computer system mentioned here includes a microcontroller having one or more processors and one or more memories. Therefore, the microcontroller is also composed of one or more electronic circuits including a semiconductor integrated circuit or a large-scale integrated circuit.

[0240] Moreover, it is not an essential configuration that a plurality of functions in each of the operating device 1, the control terminal device 9, the communication device 111, the setting device 500, etc. are aggregated within one housing. Each component of the operating device 1, the control terminal device 9, the communication device 111, the setting device 500, etc. may be provided dispersedly in a plurality of housings. Conversely, a plurality of functions in each of the operating device 1, the control terminal device 9, the communication device 111, the setting device 500, etc. may be aggregated within one housing. Furthermore, at least some functions of each of the operating device 1, the control terminal device 9, the communication device 111, the setting device 500, etc. may be realized by a cloud (cloud computing) or the like.

[0241] In the above embodiment, the light emitting unit 10 for display is arranged between the light emitting unit X1 for communication and the light receiving unit Y1 for communication. However, the arrangements of the light emitting unit X1 for communication, the light receiving unit Y1 for communication, and the light emitting unit 10 for display can be changed as appropriate. For example, the light emitting unit X1 for communication and the light receiving unit Y1 for communication may be located between the first light emitting unit 11 and the second light emitting unit 12. By arranging the light emitting unit X1 for communication and the light receiving unit Y1 for communication between the first light emitting unit 11 and the second light emitting unit 12, the light emitting unit X1 for communication and the light receiving unit Y1 for communication can be arranged closely. Also, the first light emitting unit 11 may be located between the light emitting unit X1 for communication and the light receiving unit Y1 for communication, and either the light emitting unit X1 for communication or the light receiving unit Y1 for communication may be located between the first light emitting unit 11 and the second light emitting unit 12. With such an arrangement, the first light emitting unit 11 and the second light emitting unit 12 can be arranged separately.

[0242] (3-3) Variants related to "(1) Overview" (3-3-1) Variants related to the type of transmission line, the number of quick-connect terminals, and the number of insertion holes The transmission line 112 is not limited to a two-wire transmission line for feed wiring, and may be a wiring other than feed wiring (for example, a wiring independent for each load L1), or may be a method other than the two-wire method (for example, a method using a single or three or more electric wires). The number of quick-connect terminals 81, 82 accommodated in the quick-connect terminal block 8 (and thus the number of insertion holes 80 of the quick-connect terminal block 8) is not limited to four, and may be, for example, two, one, three, or five or more.

[0243] (3-3-2) Deformation examples of the communication system, the first terminal, and the second terminal In the communication system 110 of FIG. 14, the operator 1 is connected to the transmission line 112 between the communication device 111 and the control terminal device 91. However, for example, the operator 1 may be connected to the transmission line 112 between the control terminal device 91 and the control terminal device 92. In this deformation example, the first terminal is the control terminal device 91, and the second terminal is the control terminal device 92.

[0244] (3-3-3) Deformation examples of the arrangement of the quick-connect terminals on the substrate and the exposure direction from the housing The quick-connect terminal block 8 may be connected to the first surface 7A of the substrate 7 and exposed to the outside from the same side as the switch 6 in the housing 2 (that is, the operation surface 31A of the cover 21).

[0245] According to this deformation example, it is possible to achieve flattening on the second surface 7B side of the substrate 7, and thus flattening on the back surface 22C side of the case 22 of the housing 2.

[0246] (3-3-4) Deformation examples of the positional relationship between the first rib and the quick-connect terminal The first rib 218 may be formed at a position offset from the position overlapping the quick-connect terminal block 8 on the back surface 21B of the cover 21. Also in this case, by the first rib 218 supporting the first surface 7A side of the substrate 7, it is possible to suppress deformation of the substrate 7 that occurs during the wiring operation to the quick-connect terminal block 8.

[0247] (3-3-5) Deformation examples of the direction of the insertion hole The insertion hole 80 may face the short side direction of the substrate 7. In this deformation example, by the insertion holes 80 of the quick-connect terminals 81, 82 facing the short side direction of the substrate 7, it may be possible to shorten the transmission line 112 depending on, for example, the position of the operator 1 with respect to the object to be attached or the type of the object to be attached.

[0248] (3-3-6) Deformation examples of the position of the quick-connect terminal The quick-connect terminal block 8 may be provided at the center in the longitudinal direction of the substrate 7. In this modification, since the quick-connect terminal block 8 provided at the center in the longitudinal direction of the substrate 7 is exposed to the outside from the housing 2, the workability can be improved.

[0249] (3-3-7) First modification of the combination of the position of the quick-connect terminal and the orientation of the insertion hole As shown in FIG. 29A, also in this modification, similar to the embodiment (see FIG. 17), the housing 2 is attached so that the longitudinal direction of the substrate 7 is in the vertical direction. However, in this modification, the quick-connect terminal block 8 is connected to the lower end side of the substrate 7, and the opening 220 of the back surface 22C of the case 22 is also formed on the lower end side, and the quick-connect terminal block 8 is exposed to the outside from the lower end side of the housing 2. The orientation dr1 of the insertion hole 80 of the quick-connect terminal block 8 faces upward in the vertical direction.

[0250] According to this modification, since the quick-connect terminal block 8 is exposed to the outside from the lower end side of the housing 2, the workability can be improved and the space can be saved. Further, since the insertion hole 80 of the quick-connect terminal block 8 faces upward in the vertical direction, the visibility of the insertion hole 80 is increased, and the workability can be further improved.

[0251] (3-3-8) Second modification of the combination of the position of the quick-connect terminal and the orientation of the insertion hole As shown in FIG. 29B, also in this modification, similar to the embodiment (see FIG. 17), the housing 2 is attached so that the longitudinal direction of the substrate 7 is in the vertical direction. Further, the quick-connect terminal block 8 is connected to the upper end side of the substrate 7, and the opening 220 of the back surface 22C of the case 22 is also formed on the upper end side, and the quick-connect terminal block 8 is exposed to the outside from the upper end side of the housing 2. However, in this modification, the orientation dr1 of the insertion hole 80 of the quick-connect terminal block 8 faces upward in the vertical direction.

[0252] According to this modification example, since the quick-connect terminal block 8 is exposed to the outside from the upper end side of the housing 2, the workability can be improved and the space can be saved. Further, since the insertion hole 80 of the quick-connect terminal block 8 faces upward in the vertical direction, the visibility of the insertion hole 80 is increased, and the workability can be further improved.

[0253] (3-3-9) Third modification example of the combination of the position of the quick-connect terminal and the orientation of the insertion hole As shown in FIG. 29C, also in this modification example, similar to the embodiment (see FIG. 17), the housing 2 is attached so that the longitudinal direction of the substrate 7 is in the vertical direction. However, in this modification example, the quick-connect terminal block 8 is connected to the lower end side of the substrate 7, and the opening 220 of the back surface 22C of the case 22 is also formed on the lower end side, and the quick-connect terminal block 8 is exposed to the outside from the lower end side of the housing 2. The orientation dr1 of the insertion hole 80 of the quick-connect terminal block 8 faces downward in the vertical direction.

[0254] According to this modification example, since the quick-connect terminal block 8 is exposed to the outside from the lower end side of the housing 2, the workability can be improved and the space can be saved. Further, since the insertion hole 80 of the quick-connect terminal block 8 faces downward in the vertical direction, it is possible to prevent water droplets due to condensation from entering the inside of the housing 2 from the insertion hole 80 of the quick-connect terminal block 8.

[0255] (3-3-10) Modification example of the switch body The switch body H1 is not limited to lighting control and can be used for controlling various devices.

[0256] (4) Summary The switch body (H1) according to the first aspect includes a substrate (7), a housing (2), and quick-connect terminals (81, 82). A switch (6) is provided on the substrate (7). The housing (2) houses the substrate (7). The quick-connect terminals (81, 82) are connected to the substrate (7). The quick-connect terminals (81, 82) are provided so as to be exposed to the outside from the housing (2).

[0257] According to this aspect, by providing the quick-connect terminals (81, 82) exposed to the outside from the housing (2), the workability can be improved.

[0258] In the switch body (H1) according to the second aspect, in the first aspect, the quick-connect terminals (81, 82) are connected to the second surface (second mounting surface 7B), which is the surface on the opposite side of the first surface (first mounting surface 7A), which is the surface of the substrate (7) where the switch (6) is provided. The quick-connect terminals (81, 82) are exposed to the outside from the side opposite to the switch (6) in the housing (2).

[0259] According to this aspect, compared with the case where the quick-connect terminals (81, 82) are connected to the first surface (first mounting surface 7A), which is the surface of the substrate (7) where the switch (6) is provided, it is possible to reduce the space on the first surface (7A) of the substrate (7), and thus reduce the space on the switch (6) side (front surface 21A of the cover 21) of the housing (2).

[0260] In the switch body (H1) according to the third aspect, in the second aspect, the housing (2) has ribs (first rib 218, second rib 223) that support the substrate (7).

[0261] According to this aspect, the ribs (218, 223) can suppress the deformation of the substrate (7) that occurs during the pressing operation on the switch (6) or the wiring operation on the quick-connect terminals (81, 82).

[0262] In the switch body (H1) according to the fourth aspect, in the third aspect, the ribs (218, 223) include the first rib (218). The first rib (218) is on the same side as the switch (6) in the housing (2) (the back surface 21B of the cover 21) and supports the first surface (7A) of the substrate (7).

[0263] According to this aspect, by the first rib (218) supporting the first surface (first mounting surface 7A) side of the substrate (7), it is possible to suppress the deformation of the substrate (7) that occurs during the wiring operation on the quick-connect terminals (81, 82) on the second surface (second mounting surface 7B) side of the substrate (7).

[0264] In the switch body (H1) according to the fifth aspect, in the fourth aspect, the first rib (218) is at a position overlapping with the quick-connection terminals (81, 82) connected to the second surface (second mounting surface 7B) of the substrate (7) with the substrate (7) interposed therebetween.

[0265] According to this aspect, since the first rib (218) is at a position overlapping with the quick-connection terminals (81, 82) with the substrate (7) interposed therebetween, it is possible to more effectively suppress deformation of the substrate (7) that occurs during the wiring operation to the quick-connection terminals (81, 82).

[0266] In the switch body (H1) according to the sixth aspect, in the fourth aspect, the ribs (218, 223) further include a second rib (223). The second rib (223) is on the side opposite to the switch (6) in the housing (2) (the bottom surface 22A of the case 22) and supports the second surface (second mounting surface 7B) side of the substrate (7).

[0267] According to this aspect, since the second rib (223) supports the second surface (second mounting surface 7B) side of the substrate (7), it is possible to suppress deformation of the substrate (7) that occurs during the pressing operation on the switch (6).

[0268] In the switch body (H1) according to the seventh aspect, in any one of the first to sixth aspects, the quick-connection terminals (81, 82) have insertion holes (80) into which electric wires are inserted. The insertion holes (80) are oriented in the longitudinal direction of the substrate (7).

[0269] According to this aspect, compared with the case where the insertion holes (80) of the quick-connection terminals (81, 82) are oriented in the short-side direction of the substrate (7), space saving can be achieved.

[0270] In the switch body (H1) according to the eighth aspect, in the seventh aspect, the quick-connection terminals (81, 82) are connected to one end side in the longitudinal direction of the substrate (7).

[0271] According to this aspect, the quick-connect terminals (81, 82) connected to one end side in the longitudinal direction of the substrate (7) are exposed to the outside from the housing (2) and serve as a guide for the mounting direction, thereby further improving the workability.

[0272] In the switch body (H1) according to the ninth aspect, in the eighth aspect, the insertion holes (80) of the quick-connect terminals (81, 82) are provided so as to face the other end side in the longitudinal direction of the substrate (7).

[0273] According to this aspect, by making the insertion holes (80) of the quick-connect terminals (81, 82) connected to one end side in the longitudinal direction of the substrate (7) face the other end side in the longitudinal direction of the substrate (7), space can be saved.

[0274] In the switch body (H1) according to the tenth aspect, in the ninth aspect, in a state where the housing (2) is attached to the attachment object such that the longitudinal direction of the substrate (7) is in the vertical direction, the quick-connect terminals (81, 82) are connected to the upper end side of the substrate (7) and are exposed to the outside from the upper end side of the housing (2). The insertion holes (80) of the quick-connect terminals (81, 82) face downward in the vertical direction.

[0275] According to this aspect, by the quick-connect terminals (81, 82) being exposed to the outside from the upper end side of the housing (2), the workability can be improved and space can be saved. Further, by the insertion holes (80) of the quick-connect terminals (81, 82) facing downward in the vertical direction, it is possible to prevent water droplets due to dew condensation from entering the inside of the housing (2) from the insertion holes (80) of the quick-connect terminals (81, 82).

[0276] In the switch body (H1) according to the eleventh aspect, in the seventh aspect, in a state where the housing (2) is attached to the attachment object such that the longitudinal direction of the substrate (7) is in the vertical direction, the insertion holes (80) of the quick-connect terminals (81, 82) face upward in the vertical direction.

[0277] According to this aspect, since the insertion holes (80) of the quick-connect terminals (81, 82) face upward in the vertical direction, the visibility of the insertion holes (80) is improved, and the workability can be enhanced.

[0278] In the switch body (H1) according to the twelfth aspect, in the seventh aspect, with the housing (2) attached to the object to be attached such that the longitudinal direction of the substrate (7) is in the vertical direction, the insertion holes (80) of the quick-connect terminals (81, 82) face downward in the vertical direction.

[0279] According to this aspect, since the insertion holes (80) of the quick-connect terminals (81, 82) face downward in the vertical direction, it is possible to prevent water droplets due to condensation from entering the inside of the housing (2) from the insertion holes (80) of the quick-connect terminals (81, 82).

[0280] In the switch body (H1) according to the thirteenth aspect, in the ninth aspect, a plurality of quick-connect terminals (81, 82) are connected to the substrate (7). The plurality of insertion holes (80) corresponding to the plurality of quick-connect terminals (81, 82) are arranged in the lateral direction of the substrate (7).

[0281] According to this aspect, space can be saved compared to the case where the plurality of insertion holes (80) are provided side by side in the longitudinal direction of the substrate (7).

[0282] In the switch body (H1) according to the fourteenth aspect, in the seventh aspect, a plurality of quick-connect terminals (81, 82) are connected to the substrate (7). The plurality of insertion holes (80) corresponding to the plurality of quick-connect terminals (81, 82) include two insertion holes (80) for communication with the first terminal (communication device 111) and two insertion holes (80) for communication with the second terminal (control terminal device 91).

[0283] According to this aspect, a two-wire feed wiring can be realized between the first terminal (communication device 111) and the second terminal (control terminal device 91).

[0284] In the switch body (H1) according to the 15th aspect, in the second aspect, a plurality of switches (6) are provided on the first surface (the first mounting surface 7A) of the substrate (7) in the longitudinal direction of the substrate (7). On the second surface (the second mounting surface 7B) of the substrate (7), quick-connect terminals (81, 82) are connected at positions corresponding to between two adjacent switches among the plurality of switches (6) provided on the first surface (the first mounting surface 7A).

[0285] According to this aspect, when a plurality of switches (6) are arranged in the longitudinal direction on the first surface (the first mounting surface 7A) of the substrate (7), on the second surface (the second mounting surface 7B) of the substrate (7), by connecting the quick-connect terminals (81, 82) at positions corresponding to between two adjacent switches (6) among the plurality of switches (6) on the first surface (the first mounting surface 7A), the pins of the quick-connect terminals (81, 82) on the second mounting surface 7B side can penetrate the substrate (7) and protrude to the first surface 7A side, so that the wiring can be facilitated.

[0286] The operating device (1) according to the 16th aspect includes the switch body (H1) of any one of the 1st to 15th aspects and a handle (3). The handle (3) is attached to the housing (2) so as to be able to press the switch (6).

[0287] According to this aspect, since the switch body (H1) includes the quick-connect terminals (81, 82) exposed to the outside from the housing (2), the workability can be improved as compared with the case of including screw terminals.

[0288] The communication system (110) according to the 17th aspect includes the operating device (1) of the 16th aspect and a communication device (111) that communicates with the operating device (1).

[0289] According to this aspect, since the operating device (1) includes the switch body (H1) having the quick-connect terminals (81, 82) exposed to the outside from the housing (2), the workability can be improved as compared with the case of including a switch body having screw terminals.

Description of Reference Numerals

[0290] H1 switch body 1 operating device 110 communication system 111 communication device (first terminal) 2 housing 218 first rib 223 second rib 3 handle (operating part) 6 switch 7 substrate 7A first surface (first mounting surface) 7B second surface (second mounting surface) 81, 82 quick-connect terminals 80 insertion hole 91 control terminal device (second terminal)

Claims

1. A substrate provided with a switch, a housing for housing the substrate, and quick-connect terminals connected to the substrate, wherein the quick-connect terminals are provided so as to be exposed to the outside from the housing, a switch body.

2. The quick-connect terminals are connected to a second surface which is the surface opposite to the first surface which is the surface on which the switch is provided on the substrate, and are exposed to the outside from the side opposite to the switch in the housing, the switch body according to claim 1.

3. The housing has ribs for supporting the substrate, the switch body according to claim 2.

4. The ribs are on the same side as the switch in the housing and include first ribs for supporting the first surface of the substrate, the switch body according to claim 3.

5. The first ribs are at positions overlapping with the quick-connect terminals connected to the second surface of the substrate with the substrate interposed therebetween, the switch body according to claim 4.

6. The ribs are on the side opposite to the switch in the housing and further include second ribs for supporting the second surface side of the substrate, the switch body according to claim 4.

7. The quick-connect terminals have insertion holes into which electric wires are inserted, and the insertion holes are oriented in the longitudinal direction of the substrate, the switch body according to claim 1.

8. The quick-connect terminals are connected to one end side in the longitudinal direction of the substrate, the switch body according to claim 7.

9. The quick-connect terminals are provided such that the insertion holes face the other end side in the longitudinal direction of the substrate, the switch body according to claim 8.

10. In a state where the housing is attached to an object to be attached such that the longitudinal direction of the substrate becomes the vertical direction, the quick-connect terminals are connected to the upper end side of the substrate, exposed to the outside from the upper end side of the housing, and the insertion holes of the quick-connect terminals face downward in the vertical direction, the switch body according to claim 9.

11. In a state where the housing is attached to an object to be attached such that the longitudinal direction of the substrate becomes the vertical direction, the insertion holes of the quick-connect terminals face upward in the vertical direction, the switch body according to claim 7.

12. In a state where the housing is attached to an object to be attached such that the longitudinal direction of the substrate becomes the vertical direction, the insertion holes of the quick-connect terminals face downward in the vertical direction, the switch body according to claim 7.

13. A plurality of the quick-connection terminals are connected to the substrate. The plurality of insertion holes corresponding to the plurality of the quick-connection terminals are arranged in the short side direction of the substrate. The switch body according to claim 9.

14. A plurality of the quick-connection terminals are connected to the substrate. The plurality of insertion holes corresponding to the plurality of the quick-connection terminals include two of the insertion holes for communication with the first terminal and two of the insertion holes for communication with the second terminal. The switch body according to claim 7.

15. A plurality of the switches are provided on the first surface of the substrate in the longitudinal direction of the substrate. On the second surface of the substrate, the quick-connection terminals are connected at positions corresponding to between two adjacent ones of the plurality of switches provided on the first surface. The switch body according to claim 2.

16. The switch body according to any one of claims 1 to 15, and a handle attached to the housing so as to be able to press the switch. An operating device.

17. The operating device according to claim 16, and a communication device that communicates with the operating device. A communication system.

Images