Operating instrument, communication system, operating handle, and operating instrument body

Abstract

To provide an operating instrument, a communication system, an operating handle, and an operating instrument body that allow the degree of freedom in arranging the operating handle to be improved.SOLUTION: An operating instrument 1 includes a board 7, a housing 2, and an operating handle 3. The board 7 is provided with a display light-emitting unit, a communication light-emitting unit, a communication light-receiving unit, and a push button switch 6. The housing 2 houses the board 7. The operating handle 3 has an operating surface 31A that accepts operations, and is attached to the housing 2 in a state in which the push button switch 6 can be pressed in response to an operation of the operating surface 31A. The housing 2 is provided with a housing-side opening 20 through which light emitted by the display light-emitting unit and at least one of light emitted by the communication light-emitting unit and light received by the communication light-receiving unit can pass. The operating surface 31A of the operating handle 3 is provided with a handle-side opening 30X through which the light passing through the housing-side opening 20 can pass.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an operating device, a communication system, an operating handle, and an operating device body. More specifically, the present disclosure relates to an operating device, a communication system, an operating handle, and an operating device body for operating a load.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a lighting control system including a lighting control device and an operating terminal device. On the front surface of the operating terminal device, a plurality of operation buttons for operating a plurality of operation switches are arranged respectively. Further, on the front surface of the operating terminal device, a red light-emitting diode and a green light-emitting diode are arranged corresponding to each of the plurality of operation buttons. The red light-emitting diode is arranged close to one end side of the operation button, and the green light-emitting diode is arranged close to the other end side of the operation button.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In recent years, in an operating device for operating a load, a design considering universal design has been required. In the above-described operating terminal device, since a red light-emitting diode and a green light-emitting diode are arranged at a portion other than the operation button on the front surface of the operating terminal device, the degree of freedom in arranging the operation button (operating handle) may be impaired due to the arrangement space of the light-emitting diodes.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an operating device, a communication system, an operating handle, and an operating device body capable of improving the degree of freedom in arranging the operating handle.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] An operating device according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes a substrate, a housing, and an operation handle. The substrate is provided with a display light-emitting unit, a communication light-emitting unit, a communication light-receiving unit, and a push button switch. The housing houses the substrate. The operation handle has an operation surface for receiving an operation, and is attached to the housing in a state where the push button switch can be pressed according to the operation of the operation surface. The housing is provided with a housing-side opening through which at least one of the light emitted by the communication light-emitting unit and the light received by the communication light-receiving unit and the light emitted by the display light-emitting unit can pass. A handle-side opening through which the light passing through the housing-side opening can pass is provided in the operation surface of the operation handle.

[0007] A communication system according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes the operating device and a communication device that communicates with the operating device.

[0008] An operation handle according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes a main body having an operation surface and an attachment portion for attaching the main body to a housing of an operating device in a state where a push button switch can be pressed according to the operation of the operation surface. The operating device includes a substrate and the housing. The substrate is provided with a display light-emitting unit, a communication light-emitting unit, a communication light-receiving unit, and the push button switch. The housing houses the substrate. The housing is provided with a housing-side opening through which at least one of the light emitted by the communication light-emitting unit and the light received by the communication light-receiving unit and the light emitted by the display light-emitting unit can pass. A handle-side opening through which the light passing through the housing-side opening can pass is provided in the operation surface of the main body.

[0009] An operating device main body according to an aspect of the present disclosure includes a substrate provided with a display light-emitting unit, a communication light-emitting unit, a communication light-receiving unit, and a push button switch, and a housing that houses the substrate. The housing includes a support portion for attaching an operation handle in a state where the push button switch can be pressed. The housing is provided with a housing-side opening through which at least one of the light emitted by the communication light-emitting unit and the light received by the communication light-receiving unit and the light emitted by the display light-emitting unit can pass.

Advantages of the Invention

[0010] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide an operating device, a communication system, an operating handle, and an operating device main body that can improve the degree of freedom in arranging the operating handle.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0011]

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Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0012] 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 related to the present disclosure is not deviated from. The following embodiments and modifications can be applied in appropriate combinations. Also, FIGS. 1 to 13, FIGS. 16 to 27 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.

[0013] (Embodiment) Hereinafter, the operating device 1, the communication system 110, the load system 100, and the load control system 120 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 16.

[0014] (1) Outline Hereinafter, the outline of the operating device 1 according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0015] As shown in FIGS. 3, 7, 8, etc., the operating device 1 includes a substrate 7, a housing 2, and an operation handle 3.

[0016] On the substrate 7, a display light-emitting part 10, a communication light-emitting part X1, a communication light-receiving part Y1, and a push-button switch 6 are provided (see FIG. 2).

[0017] The housing 2 houses the substrate 7.

[0018] The operation handle 3 has an operation surface 31A for receiving operations. The operation handle 3 is attached to the housing 2 in a state where the push-button switch 6 can be pressed according to the operation of the operation surface 31A.

[0019] The housing 2 is provided with a housing-side opening 20. At least one of the light emitted by the communication light-emitting part X1 and the light received by the communication light-receiving part Y1 and the light emitted by the display light-emitting part 10 (10A to 10D) can pass through the housing-side opening 20.

[0020] The operation surface 31A of the operation handle 3 is provided with a handle-side opening 30X through which light passing through the housing-side opening 20 can pass.

[0021] Further, as shown in FIGS. 3, 7, 8, etc., the operation handle 3 includes a main body portion 31 having an operation surface 31A, and an attachment portion 3X for attaching the main body portion 31 to the housing 2 of the operating device 1 in a state where the push button switch 6 can be pressed in response to the operation of the operation surface 31A. The operating device 1 includes a substrate 7 and a housing 2. The substrate 7 is provided with a display light-emitting portion 10, a communication light-emitting portion X1, a communication light-receiving portion Y1, and a push button switch 6. The housing 2 houses the substrate 7. 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 portion X1 and the light received by the communication light-receiving portion Y1 and the light emitted by the display light-emitting portion 10 can pass. The operation surface 31A of the main body portion 31 is provided with a handle-side opening 30X through which light passing through the housing-side opening 20 can pass.

[0022] According to the above configuration, the handle-side opening 30X provided in the operation surface 31A of the operation handle 3 allows at least one of the light emitted by the communication light-emitting portion X1 and the light received by the communication light-receiving portion Y1 and the light emitted by the display light-emitting portion 10 to pass through. Therefore, it is possible to arrange the operation handle 3 also in the arrangement space where at least one of the communication light-emitting portion X1 and the communication light-receiving portion Y1 and the display light-emitting portion 10 are arranged in the housing 2, and there is an advantage that the degree of freedom in arranging the operation handle 3 is improved.

[0023] Also, compared with the case where an opening through which at least one of the light emitted by the communication light-emitting portion X1 and the light received by the communication light-receiving portion Y1 can pass and an opening through which the light emitted by the display light-emitting portion 10 can pass are provided separately, the possibility of impairing the design can be reduced.

[0024] In addition, compared with the case where an opening 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 is provided at a portion other than the operation surface 31A of the operation handle 3 on the surface of the operation device 1, the operation surface 31A of the operation handle 3 can be enlarged.

[0025] (2) Configuration (2-1) Overall configuration Hereinafter, the operation device 1 according to the present embodiment and the communication system 110 including the operation device 1 will be described.

[0026] The communication system 110 includes an operation device 1 and a communication device 111 that communicates with the operation device 1 (see FIG. 14).

[0027] 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 operation device 1 are installed. Further, 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.

[0028] In addition, as shown in FIG. 14, the load system 100 according to the present embodiment includes an operation device 1 and a load L1. The load system 100 may include one or a plurality of loads L1 (for example, two lighting fixtures A1). In the example of FIG. 14, the relay Ry1 and the control terminal device 9 are also included in the components of the load system 100, but at least one of them may not be included in the components of the load system 100. Further, when the relay Ry1 is assumed to be the load L1, the lighting fixture A1 may not be included in the components of the load system 100.

[0029] Also, a load control system 120 for controlling a load L1 is realized by a communication system 110 including an operating device 1 and a communication device 111, a control terminal device 9, and a load L1 to be controlled (for example, a lighting fixture A1). The load L1 is not limited to the lighting fixture A1, and may be a relay Ry1 for switching between a state of supplying power to the lighting fixture A1 and a state of cutting off the power supply. Further, the load L1 may be an electric 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 electric 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 operating devices 1 is one, but the number of operating devices 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. However, 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.

[0030] The operating device 1, the communication device 111, and the two control terminal devices 9 are each electrically connected to a two-wire transmission line 112.

[0031] The operating device 1 includes a plurality (for example, eight) 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 operating device 1 transmits the load address assigned to the pressed push-button switch 6 to the communication device 111.

[0032] 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.

[0033] The communication device 111 has a memory that stores the correspondence between the load addresses assigned to the plurality of push-button 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 push-button 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 push-button switch 6 from the operator 1. When the communication device 111 acquires the load address of the pressed push-button 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 push-button 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 push-button 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.

[0034] 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.

[0035] 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 operating device 1 and the two control terminal devices 9 is generated by rectifying and stabilizing the transmission signal transmitted by the communication device 111.

[0036] (2-2) Operating device Hereinafter, the configuration of the operating device 1 will be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 1 to 13. Hereinafter, based on the arrows in the up-down direction, left-right direction, and front-back direction without the entities shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the direction of the operating device 1 may be defined for description, but it is not intended to limit the usage direction of the operating device 1. FIG. 15 is a schematic block diagram of the operating device 1.

[0037] The operator 1 includes a signal processing unit 15, a plurality of pushbutton 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. The operator 1 also includes a pair of first connection terminals 81 and a pair of second connection terminals 82.

[0038] A pair of first connection terminals 81 and a pair of second connection terminals 82 are each connected to a pair of transmission lines 112. The pair of first connection terminals 81 and the pair of second connection terminals 82 are electrically connected inside the operator 1. For example, the pair of second connection terminals 82 are used as terminals for feed wiring.

[0039] The communication unit 17 is connected to the pair of transmission lines 112 via the pair of first connection terminals 81 and is connected to the pair of transmission lines 112 via the pair of second connection terminals 82. As a result, the communication unit 17 is branched and connected to the pair of transmission lines 112. The communication unit 17 communicates with the communication device 111 in a multiplex transmission system via the pair of transmission lines 112.

[0040] The power supply unit 19 rectifies and stabilizes the transmission signal transmitted from the communication device 111 to the pair of transmission lines 112 to generate the operating power for the internal circuit of the operator 1.

[0041] 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 pushbutton switches 6 provided in the operator 1.

[0042] The signal processing unit 15 controls the entire operation unit 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 a 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-transitory recording medium such as a memory card.

[0043] The storage unit 18 includes memories such as a RAM (Random Access Memory), a ROM (Read-Only Memory), and an EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), for example. 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-button switches 6.

[0044] The operation unit 1 includes a housing 2, one or more (four in FIG. 1) operation handles 3, a substrate 7, and a mounting frame 5. Further, the operation unit 1 further includes one or more (eight in FIG. 2) push-button switches 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 operation unit 1 further includes a quick-connect terminal block 8 (see FIG. 6).

[0045] Note that the configuration in which the operation handle 3 is removed from the operation unit 1 is the operation unit main body 1X (see FIGS. 4 and 7). The operation unit 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 switch 6. The housing 2 houses the substrate 7. The housing 2 includes a support portion 23 for attaching the operation handle 3 in a state where the push-button switch 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.

[0046] The 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 also 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 has the same number of light emitting groups G1 as the push button switches 6.

[0047] (2-2-1) Operating handle In the present embodiment, the operating device 1 includes, for example, a mounting frame 5 having the dimensions of a mounting frame for three large angular continuous wiring devices (a so-called mounting frame for three switches) standardized according to Japanese Industrial Standards. In the present 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 (that is, 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 including 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.

[0048] 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 (operating device 1A) described later, the number of push button switches 6 pressed by each operating handle 3 may be one.

[0049] As described above, the operation device 1 includes four operation handles 3 (see FIG. 1). The four operation handles 3 are provided in a manner held by the housing 2. Each operation handle 3 receives an operation for switching the state of the load L1 (in this embodiment, the lighting fixture A1 or the relay Ry1). In this embodiment, each operation handle 3 can individually switch the states of two different loads L1 (the lighting fixture A1 or the relay Ry1).

[0050] The four operation handles 3 are arranged so as to be aligned in the vertical direction 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 distinguished from each other for description, 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.

[0051] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 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.

[0052] 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.

[0053] 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. 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 this 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 portion different from the handle-side opening 30X on the operation surface 31A of the operation handle 3. For example, when a 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 (third opening 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 as compared with the case where the handle-side opening 30X and the window hole (third opening 303) are provided separately.

[0054] The handle-side opening 30X is formed in a slit shape. In this embodiment, the handle-side opening 30X is a rectangular hole that is long in the vertical direction when viewed from the front. The handle-side opening 30X 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 described later.

[0055] The main body 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. In the following description, when it is described that "the operation surface 31A (surface 40) is pressed", it means that at least one of the operation surface 31A of the main body 31 and the surface 40 of the light-transmitting cover 4 is pressed.

[0056] When the user presses a region near the right or 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 direction.

[0057] The main body 31 has a pair of locking portions corresponding to the mounting portion 3X at both the left and right ends on the rear surface 31B opposite to the operation surface 31A. Hereinafter, the right locking portion of 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).

[0058] The first locking portion 311 and the second locking portion 312 are formed symmetrically 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 (surface 40) is subjected to a pressing operation, the right end portion (or left end portion) of the main body 31 retreats, and the main body 31 rotates so that the left end portion (or right end portion) protrudes forward. 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 in this state.

[0059] In addition, the main body 31 has a pair of holding parts corresponding to the mounting part 3X at both upper and lower ends on the back surface 31B side. Hereinafter, the upper holding part of the pair of holding parts is referred to as the "first holding part 313", and the lower holding part is referred to as the "second holding part 314" (see FIGS. 7, 8, 9, and 11A).

[0060] The first holding part 313 and the second holding part 314 respectively hold a pair of rotation shafts 230 (see FIGS. 7, 10, and 11A) of the support part 23 provided on the cover 21 of the housing 2. Each of the first holding part 313 and the second holding part 314 is configured as a protruding piece protruding rearward from the back surface 31B of the main body part 31. The tip of each of the first holding part 313 and the second holding part 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 part 31 (that is, the operation handle 3) is supported by the support part 23 and can rotate like a seesaw within a predetermined angular range around the pair of rotation shafts 230.

[0061] In short, the operation handle 3 has a mounting part 3X for mounting to the housing 2, and the mounting part 3X includes the first locking part 311 and the second locking part 312, and the first holding part 313 and the second holding part 314 described above.

[0062] 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, in the recesses 315 provided in the first holding portion 313 and the second holding portion 314, claw portions 3151 (see FIG. 9) are provided at positions corresponding to the step 232 of the rotation shaft 230. 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 portions 3151 are 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. 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. 8 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. 8) is inserted.

[0063] 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 operating device 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 has substantially the same shape and substantially the same dimensions 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 serving as a window hole becomes the cover member 42. That is, the operation handle 3 has the 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.).

[0064] The operation handle 3 is provided with a lid portion 33 that covers the surface on the side opposite to the operation surface 31A (the front 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 arranged so as to sandwich the name plate 32 between itself and the rear surface of the translucent cover 4 (cover member 42). The characters of the name plate 32 arranged between the translucent cover 4 (cover member 42) and the lid portion 33 can be visually recognized from the outside through the window hole (the third opening 303). Note that the lid portion 33 has a first end portion 33A and a second end portion 33B that face each other (see FIGS. 8 and 9). The first end portion 33A and the second end portion 33B of the lid portion 33 face each other in the short side direction. And the second end portion 33B of the lid portion 33 is supported by the operation handle 3 (the main body portion 31) in a state where the first end portion 33A is rotatable about the second end portion 33B as the center. Therefore, the name plate 32 can be attached or detached with the lid portion 33 in an open state.

[0065] Note that although the lid portion 33 is formed in a rectangular plate shape, the shape of the lid portion 33 in plan view can be appropriately changed. A recess may be provided in a V shape at the second end portion 33B that serves as the rotation center in order to avoid interference with the second holding portion 314.

[0066] Specifically, the lid portion 33 has a pair of shaft portions 331 (see FIGS. 7 and 8) at the second end portion 33B (the lower end portion). Also, the lid portion 33 has a pair of projecting pieces 332 (see FIGS. 7 and 8) at the first end portion 33A (the upper end portion). The lid portion 33 is held by the main body portion 31 so as to be rotatable between an open position where the name plate 32 can be taken out with the shaft portion 331 as the rotation axis and a closed position where the name plate 32 is covered, by the shaft portion 331 being held by the bearing portion 316 of the main body portion 31. The lid portion 33 is prevented from opening by the pair of projecting pieces 332 fitting into the pair of hole portions 318 of the main body portion 31 respectively when the lid portion 33 is further pushed forward with a fingertip or the like in the closed position.

[0067] The lid portion 33 has a pair of protruding contact portions 334 (see Fig. 8, a total of four) near both left and right ends on its back surface. The contact portions 334 are arranged to face the pressing portions 210 provided on the cover 21 of the housing 2 described later. By contacting the pressing portions 210, the contact portions 334 transmit the pressing operation received from the user on the operation surface 31A (front surface 40) to the pressing portions 210. The contact portions 334 may be in slight contact with the pressing portions 210 even when not receiving a pressing operation. Alternatively, the contact portions 334 may be separated from the pressing portions 210 when not receiving a pressing operation and come into contact with the pressing portions 210 when receiving a pressing operation.

[0068] The lid portion 33 further has a gripping portion 333 (see Fig. 8) that can be pinched by the user's finger or the like on its back surface. That is, on the part of the lid portion 33 opposite to the operation surface 31A of the operation handle 3, the gripping portion 333 protrudes in a direction opposite to the operation handle 3 from a position closer to the first end portion 33A (the upper end portion in this embodiment) than the second end portion 33B (the lower end portion in this embodiment). The gripping portion 333 is formed in a T shape. The user can open the lid portion 33 by pinching and pulling the gripping portion 333 in a state where the operation handle 3 is removed from the housing 2. Note that the shape of the gripping portion 333 is not limited to a T shape and can be changed as appropriate.

[0069] 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 or polycarbonate resin. The light-transmitting cover 4 is formed in a rectangular box shape with its upper surface, lower surface, and back surface open as a whole. In other words, the light-transmitting cover 4 is formed in a substantially U shape when viewed from above.

[0070] 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 at the handle-side opening 30X and a light-transmitting cover member 42 disposed at the window hole (third opening 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 formed as one continuous and integral member, 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 also 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 to the rear surface of the optical member 41 and emitting it to the communication light-receiving unit Y1 from the rear surface of the optical member 41.

[0071] Further, 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.

[0072] The 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), in addition to the above visible light, to pass through the optical member 41 on the right side. 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, in addition to the above visible light, to pass through the optical member 41 on the left side. 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 from the outside directed toward the communication light-receiving unit Y1 can be guided to the communication light-receiving unit Y1 through the optical member 41.

[0073] In this embodiment, each optical member 41 has a protruding portion 410 (see FIGS. 8 and 9) that protrudes toward the housing 2. The protruding portion 410 is 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 that protrudes 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 housed 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.

[0074] 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 led out 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.

[0075] In addition, each optical member 41 further has a protrusion 411 (see FIGS. 7 and 8) that protrudes outward. By the pair of protrusions 411 hitting the peripheries of the first opening 301 and the second opening 302 from behind, the detachment of the light-transmitting cover 4 from the opening 30 is suppressed.

[0076] In addition, each optical member 41 further has a protrusion 412 (see FIG. 7) that protrudes forward. Since the protrusions 412 are provided at the left end portion and the right end portion of the surface 40 of the light-transmitting cover 4, respectively, the protrusion 412 provided at the left end portion of the surface 40 of the light-transmitting cover 4 is located at the left end of the opening 30, and the protrusion 412 provided at the right end portion of the surface 40 of the light-transmitting cover 4 is located at the right end of the opening 30 (see FIG. 1). Therefore, when pressing (operating) the right side portion or the left side portion of the operation surface 31A (surface 40) of the operation handle 3, there is an advantage that it is easy to know the position to press the operation handle 3 by using the position of the protrusion 412 as a clue. 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.

[0077] When attaching the operation handle 3 configured as described above 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 that 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 rotation 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.

[0078] 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, the main body portion 31 is prevented from coming off the support portion 23. As a result, the operation handle 3 is prevented from falling off the housing 2.

[0079] (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.

[0080] The housing 2 houses the substrate 7 and the like inside. The quick-connect terminal block 8 is mounted on the second mounting surface 7B on the back side of the substrate 7 (see FIG. 3), and the housing 2 holds the quick-connect terminal block 8 so as to be exposed to the outside on the back side of the housing 2 as shown in FIG. 6. 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.

[0081] The cover 21 is formed in a rectangular box shape with an open back surface. The cover 21 is assembled to cover the (open) front surface of the case 22.

[0082] 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.

[0083] 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 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-button switches 6. As shown in FIG. 3, each pressing portion 210 has a pair of pressing pieces 211 and a pair of extending portions 213.

[0084] 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 about 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. In the peripheral region of each extending portion 213, a groove 214 penetrating the cover 21 in the front - rear direction is formed. As a result, each extending portion 213 can move the tip portion 213A back and forth with the base as a fulcrum.

[0085] As shown in FIG. 3, each extending portion 213 obliquely extends 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 extending portion 213. As a result, the operation feeling is improved.

[0086] Each tip portion 213A has a vertically long block shape. The pressing piece 211 protrudes rearward from the rear surface of the tip portion 213A.

[0087] 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 - hand 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 right - hand extending portion 213. As a result, the right - hand extending 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 - hand push - button switch 6.

[0088] 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 - hand 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 left - hand extending portion 213. As a result, the left - hand extending 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 - hand push - button switch 6.

[0089] When the user's pressing operation ends, the extended portion 213 that has been pressed elastically returns, and the "pressing" of the push button switch 6 by the tip portion 213A thereof is released. Further, by the elastically returned extended portion 213 pushing the contact portion 334 forward, the operation handle 3 returns to the position before being pressed.

[0090] 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.

[0091] The 16 locking holes 212 are divided into two rows of 8 each and arranged on the left and right in the front view of the front surface 21A. The 8 locking holes 212 in the right row 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 row are arranged in a single row in the vertical direction near the left end of the front surface 21A.

[0092] Hereinafter, the 8 locking holes 212 in each of the right row and the left row 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).

[0093] 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.

[0094] 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.

[0095] 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.

[0096] Four locking pieces 3100 provided on the main body 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.

[0097] In addition, as shown in FIGS. 3, 7, 10, and 13A, the cover 21 has one or more (here, a total of eight) 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.

[0098] As shown in FIG. 10, the eight housing-side openings 20 are divided into two rows of four 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 portions 210 arranged in the center in the front view of the front surface 21A. Further, 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 portions 210 arranged in the center in the front view of the front surface 21A.

[0099] Each of the four operation handles 3 is arranged to cover the corresponding two left and right housing-side openings 20. That is, the operation handle 3 is arranged to cover the housing-side opening 20.

[0100] 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).

[0101] The first operation handle 3A covers the left and right openings 20A. In particular, in the front view, the right opening 20A 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 first operation handle 3A. In addition, in the front view, the left opening 20A 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 first operation handle 3A.

[0102] The second operation handle 3B covers the left and right openings 20B. In particular, in a front view, the right opening 20B 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 second operation handle 3B. Also, in a front view, the left opening 20B 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 second operation handle 3B.

[0103] 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.

[0104] 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.

[0105] 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.

[0106] 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.

[0107] 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 among the four second protrusions 216 are shown. A pair of mounting claws 216A (see FIG. 12) are provided on the surface of each second protrusion 216. A total of eight mounting claws 216A are provided on the entire cover 21. By hooking the eight mounting claws 216A into 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.

[0108] 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.

[0109] 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 vertical, horizontal, left, and right directions.

[0110] 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 vertical, horizontal, left, and right directions.

[0111] Further, the case 22 has a plurality of cylindrical boss portions 223 (see FIG. 3) protruding from its bottom surface 22A. The plurality of boss portions 223 come into contact with the back surface of the substrate 7 to stably position the substrate 7 in the rear direction.

[0112] Further, the case 22 has four claw portions 225 (see FIG. 12) that are respectively hooked into four hole portions 215A of the cover 21 on the outer surfaces of the upper and lower ends of its peripheral edge 22B as described above.

[0113] (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 (rear 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 units 16 (having a communication light-emitting unit X1 and a communication light-receiving unit Y1), and a quick-connection terminal block 8. Further, the plurality of electronic components include electronic components constituting the signal processing unit 15, electronic components constituting the communication unit 17, electronic components constituting the storage unit 18, and electronic components constituting the power supply unit 19, etc.

[0114] As shown in FIG. 2, the eight push-button switches 6 are provided on the substrate 7. In the front view of the first mounting surface 7A (front surface), the eight push-button switches 6 are divided into two columns of four each and arranged vertically. 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 tactile 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).

[0115] 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".

[0116] Hereinafter, the first push-button switches 61 and the second push-button switches 62 in the first row from the top may be collectively referred to as "first switch group 6A", and the first push-button switches 61 and the second push-button switches 62 in the second row from the top may be collectively referred to as "second switch group 6B" (see FIG. 2). Also, the first push-button switches 61 and the second push-button switches 62 in the third row from the top may be collectively referred to as "third switch group 6C", and the first push-button switches 61 and the second push-button switches 62 in the fourth row from the top may be collectively referred to as "fourth switch group 6D" (see FIG. 2).

[0117] 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 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 surface 40) receives a pressing operation, the second push-button switch 62 of the first switch group 6A is turned on.

[0118] 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 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 surface 40) receives a pressing operation, the second push-button switch 62 of the second switch group 6B is turned on.

[0119] 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 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 surface 40) receives a pressing operation, the second push-button switch 62 of the third switch group 6C is turned on.

[0120] 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.

[0121] 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.

[0122] 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 portion 11 and a second light-emitting portion 12. That is, the operating device 1 includes the first light-emitting portion 11 and the second light-emitting portion 12. Each of the first light-emitting portion 11 and the second light-emitting portion 12 emits visible light. In other words, each light-emitting group G1 constitutes a display light-emitting portion 10 that emits visible light.

[0123] The first light-emitting portion 11 and the second light-emitting portion 12 of each light-emitting group G1 are arranged adjacent to each other vertically in the order of the second light-emitting portion 12 and the first light-emitting portion 11 from top to bottom.

[0124] 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 portion 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 portion 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 portion 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 portion 10D" (see FIG. 2).

[0125] The first light-emitting portion 11 may have one or more light-emitting elements and a lens portion that covers the light-emitting elements. The light-emitting element is, for example, an LED (Light Emitting Diode) element. The first light-emitting portion 11 is, for example, a package-type LED module and is mounted on the first mounting surface 7A (front surface).

[0126] 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 portion 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 portion 11 has 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.

[0127] 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 package-type LED module and is mounted on the first mounting surface 7A (front surface).

[0128] When the state of the load L1 is 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 emitted 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 may include a blue LED element and a yellow phosphor, and white light may be emitted from the lens unit by a combination of blue light and yellow light generated when the blue light is excited by the phosphor.

[0129] In the present embodiment, the display light-emitting unit 10 includes a plurality of light-emitting units (the first light-emitting unit 11 and the second light-emitting unit 12) having different emission colors. Therefore, various displays can be performed using a plurality of light-emitting units having different emission colors. Although the display light-emitting unit 10 includes two light-emitting units, it may include three or more light-emitting units having different emission colors.

[0130] 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 further 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 through 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 further 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 through the optical member 41 on the left side of the first operation handle 3A.

[0131] The left and right second display light-emitting parts 10B are arranged corresponding to the second operation handle 3B. Between the left and right second display light-emitting parts 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 part 10B faces the right opening 20B and further faces the first opening 301 of the second operation handle 3B. Visible light from the right second display light-emitting part 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 part 10B faces the left opening 20B and further faces the second opening 302 of the second operation handle 3B. Visible light from the left second display light-emitting part 10B is led out to the outside from the optical member 41 on the left side of the second operation handle 3B.

[0132] The left and right third display light-emitting parts 10C are arranged corresponding to the third operation handle 3C. Between the left and right third display light-emitting parts 10C, a first push-button switch 61 and a second push-button switch 62 pushed by the third operation handle 3C are located. The right third display light-emitting part 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 part 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 part 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 part 10C is led out to the outside from the optical member 41 on the left side of the third operation handle 3C.

[0133] 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 pushed by the fourth operation handle 3D are located. 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. 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 also 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.

[0134] The 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.

[0135] In the present embodiment, the two communication light-emitting units X1 are arranged separately left and right at the lower part of the first mounting surface 7A so as to correspond to the fourth operation handle 3D.

[0136] Specifically, the right communication light-emitting unit X1 is arranged adjacent to and under the first light-emitting unit 11 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 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.

[0137] The left communication light-emitting unit X1 is disposed 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 to the outside from the optical member 41 on the left side of the fourth operation handle 3D.

[0138] 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 setter 500 (see FIG. 16).

[0139] 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 be visible light. Each communication light-receiving unit Y1 includes an infrared light-receiving element and an optical lens unit covering 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 setter 500 can be received by the setting communication unit 16 via the infrared light-receiving element.

[0140] In the present embodiment, the two communication light-receiving units Y1 are arranged separately left and right at the lower part of the first mounting surface 7A so as to correspond to the fourth operation handle 3D.

[0141] 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 further 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.

[0142] The light-receiving unit Y1 for communication on the left side is arranged adjacent to the second light-emitting unit 12 of the fourth light-emitting unit 10D for display on the left side, faces the opening 20D on the left side, 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 light-receiving unit Y1 for communication on the left side.

[0143] In short, the light-receiving unit Y1 for communication on the right side, the second light-emitting unit 12 of the fourth light-emitting unit 10D for display on the right side, the first light-emitting unit 11, and the light-emitting unit X1 for communication on the right side are arranged in a column in the vertical direction in this order from top to bottom, and all of them face the opening 20D on the right side. In other words, the fourth light-emitting unit 10D for display on the right side is arranged between the light-receiving unit Y1 for communication on the right side and the light-emitting unit X1 for communication on the right side.

[0144] Similarly, the light-receiving unit Y1 for communication on the left side, the second light-emitting unit 12 of the fourth light-emitting unit 10D for display on the left side, the first light-emitting unit 11, and the light-emitting unit X1 for communication on the left side are arranged in a column in the vertical direction in this order from top to bottom, and all of them face the opening 20D on the left side. In other words, the fourth light-emitting unit 10D for display on the left side is arranged between the light-receiving unit Y1 for communication on the left side and the light-emitting unit X1 for communication on the left side.

[0145] As described above, 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, it is possible to arrange the operation handle 3 also in the arrangement space where the communication light emitting unit X1, the communication light receiving unit Y1, and the display light emitting unit 10 are arranged in the housing 2, and there is an advantage that the degree of freedom in arranging the operation handle 3 is improved. Further, 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 in 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. 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.

[0146] 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.

[0147] (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 housing the housing 2 at its central portion. The mounting frame 5 is made of, for example, metal. As described above, the mounting frame 5 has the same dimensions as the mounting frame for the three - way switch. As described above, the mounting frame 5 has a plurality of mounting holes 51 (see FIG. 4) on which eight mounting claws 216A of the housing 2 are hooked. Note that the mounting frame 5 does not have to be a component of the operating device 1.

[0148] 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 disposed 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. Note that a decorative plate K1 (see FIG. 16) can be attached around the front surface of the operating device 1 so as to conceal the construction hole or the like.

[0149] (2-2-5) Quick-connection terminal block The quick-connection terminal block 8 is mounted on the second mounting surface 7B (back surface) of the substrate 7. The quick-connection terminal block 8 houses one or a plurality (here, four) of quick-connection terminals inside. In the present embodiment, the quick-connection terminal block 8 has four quick-connection terminals corresponding to a pair of first connection terminals 81 and a pair of second connection terminals 82. Then, the quick-connection terminal block 8 has four wire insertion holes 80 (see FIG. 6) for introducing four transmission lines 112 respectively wired from the switch box side to the four quick-connection terminals.

[0150] The case 22 has a window hole for exposing the quick-connection terminal block 8 to the outside of the housing 2 on the back surface 22C (see FIG. 6). The quick-connection terminal block 8 is inserted into the window hole 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.

[0151] (2-3) Setter The setter 500 has, for example, a microcomputer having a processor and a memory. Then, by the processor executing a 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-temporary recording medium such as a memory card, or may be provided through an electric communication line such as the Internet.

[0152] The setter 500 (dedicated remote control) has an elongated cylindrical housing as shown in FIG. 16. The setter 500 is battery-powered, for example. On one side 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.

[0153] (2-4) Operation of the Operator Hereinafter, the operation of the operator 1 will be described separately for the load address setting operation, the first operation, and the second operation.

[0154] [Load Address Setting Operation] The user can set the load address for the plurality of push buttons 6 provided in the operator 1 using the setter 500.

[0155] In this embodiment, the operator 1 is provided with eight push buttons 6, and different load addresses can be set for the four push buttons 6 on the right side and the four push buttons 6 on the left side, respectively.

[0156] When setting the load address of the right push button 6, the user performs the load address setting operation using the setter 500 with the second end of the housing in which the communication module 502 is housed 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 operator 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 operator 1 receives the infrared signal from the setter 500, it sets the load address of the right push button 6 based on the received infrared signal and stores it in the storage unit 18.

[0157] When setting the load address of the left push-button switch 6, the user performs the load address setting operation using the setter 500 with the second end of the housing in which the communication module 502 is housed 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 operator 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 operator 1 receives the infrared signal from the setter 500 at 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.

[0158] [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.

[0159] 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 operator 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). By performing a series of operations in which the user presses the operation surface 31A (surface 40), tilts the operation surface 31A (surface 40) to press the first push-button switch 61 with the pressing piece 211, and then releases the pressing so that the operation surface 31A (surface 40) returns to its original position, the operation signal is transmitted once as "one-time on operation of the push-button switch 6".

[0160] When the communication device 111 receives an 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 an 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.

[0161] 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.

[0162] When the state of the load L1 in the received state signal is the first state (on state) for the operating device 1 that is the transmission source of the operation signal, it causes the first light emitting part 11 on the right side (corresponding to the fourth operation handle 3D) to emit light (here, red light emission). As a result, 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 lights up red. In the present embodiment, at this time, the second light emitting part 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 lit up red, it does not light up white. However, the second light emitting part 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 part 12 does not emit light (or may emit light with a weaker light output than when the state of the load L1 is in the second state) when the state of the load L1 is in the first state.

[0163] On one hand, when the state of the load L1 in the received status signal is in the second state (off state), the operation device 1, which is the source of the operation signal, causes the second light-emitting part 12 on the right side (corresponding to the fourth operation handle 3D) to emit light (white light emission). As a result, white light passes through the right-side opening 20D (housing-side opening 20) and the right-side first opening 301 (handle-side opening 30X), and is led out from the right-side optical member 41. That is, the vicinity of the right end of the fourth operation handle 3D emits white light. In this embodiment, at this time, the first light-emitting part 11 on the right side does not emit light. That is, when the vicinity of the right end of the fourth operation handle 3D emits white light, it does not emit red light. However, the first light-emitting part 11 may emit light slightly to such an extent that a person cannot visually recognize with the naked eye that it is emitting light. In short, when the state of the load L1 is in the second state, the first light-emitting part 11 does not emit light (or may emit light with a lower light output than when it is in the first state).

[0164] In this way, each housing-side opening 20 can emit the light of a specific color emitted from the corresponding first light-emitting part 11 and the white light emitted from the corresponding second light-emitting part 12. Therefore, for example, it is easier to reduce the size of the operation device 1 compared to the case where the light from the first light-emitting part 11 and the light from the second light-emitting part 12 are emitted from separate openings respectively.

[0165] [Second operation (left-side operation of the operation part)] Next, the second operation when the user presses (operates) the vicinity of 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) will be described.

[0166] 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 is turned on. As a result, the operation 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).

[0167] When the communication device 111 receives an 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. Further, when the communication device 111 receives an 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 device 9 associated with the second push button switch 62, it returns this state information to the operating device 1 that is the transmission source of the operation signal.

[0168] 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.

[0169] When the state of the load L1 in the received state signal is the first state (on state), the operating device 1 causes the first light emitting part 11 on the left side (corresponding to the fourth operation handle 3D) to emit light (here, red light emission). As a result, 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).

[0170] On the other hand, when the state of the load L1 in the received state signal is the second state (off state), the operating device 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, 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).

[0171] In this way, in the operating device 1, depending on whether one end side or the other end side of the single operating 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.

[0172] (2-5) Another example of the housing side opening Incidentally, in the examples shown in FIGS. 10 and 13A, the housing side opening 20 is configured as a single 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 unit 11. The second opening 202 may emit white light emitted from the second light emitting unit 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), respectively, the state of the load L1 becomes easier to visually determine.

[0173] (3) Modification example The above-described embodiment is merely one of various embodiments of the present disclosure. The above-described embodiment can be variously modified according to the design and the like as long as the object of the present disclosure can be achieved. Hereinafter, modification examples of the above-described embodiment will be listed. The above-described embodiment, the modification examples described below, and between each modification example can be applied in appropriate combination.

[0174] (3-1) Modification example 1 Hereinafter, an operating device 1A, which is a modification example of the operating device 1 according to the above-described embodiment, will be described with reference to FIGS. 17 to 25B. In the following, for the operating device 1A according to this modification example (modification example 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 appropriately omitted.

[0175] The operator 1 includes four operating handles 3 corresponding to a hinge-type operating handle, while the operator 1A is different from the operator 1 in that it includes four operating handles 3 corresponding to a cantilever-type operating handle. Also, the number of push-button switches 6 etc. included in the operator 1A is different from that of the operator 1. In the following, when explaining the four operating handles 3 of the operator 1A while distinguishing them 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. 17).

[0176] Hereinafter, the configuration of the operator 1A (operation terminal) will be described in detail. In the following, based on the arrows in the vertical, horizontal, and front-rear directions without the entities shown in Figs. 17 and 19, the direction of the operator 1A may be defined and described, but this is not intended to limit the usage direction of the operator 1A.

[0177] The operator 1A includes a housing 2, one or more (four in Fig. 17) operating handles 3, one or more (four in Fig. 18) push-button switches 6, a circuit board 7, a mounting frame 5, and a quick-connect terminal block 8 (see Fig. 19). Also, like 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). Also, the operator 1A includes a pair of first connection terminals 81 and a pair of second connection terminals 82 (see Fig. 15).

[0178] The display light-emitting unit 10 of the operator 1A includes one or more (four in Fig. 18) light-emitting groups G1. As shown in Fig. 18, each light-emitting group G1 includes a first light-emitting unit 11 and a second light-emitting unit 12.

[0179] The setting communication unit 16 of the operator 1A has one or more (one in Fig. 18) communication light-emitting units X1 and one or more (one in Fig. 18) communication light-receiving units Y1. The setting communication unit 16 communicates with a setter 500 for address setting (see Fig. 16).

[0180] Each operation handle 3 corresponds to a cantilever-type operation handle in which one of the left and right ends (here, the left end) is supported by the housing 2, and when the other end (here, the right end) receives pressure, the other end is displaced backward with the one end as a fulcrum. 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 operating device 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.

[0181] Each operation handle 3 receives an operation for switching the state of the load L1. In this modified example, 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 so as to be aligned in the vertical direction in a front view. Each operation handle 3 of this modified example includes a main body portion 31, a name plate 32, a lid portion 33, and a light-transmitting cover 4 as shown in FIGS. 19 to 22.

[0182] The main body portion 31 has an opening 30 that is long in the left-right direction when viewed from the front. The opening 30 includes a first opening 301 on the right side and a third opening 303 located in the center as shown in FIG. 25B. 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. 25B. 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 so as to be aligned in the longitudinal direction (here, the vertical direction) of the (corresponding) handle-side opening 30X (see FIG. 25B).

[0183] In this modification 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.

[0184] 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. 20, 21, and 22). The length of each locking piece 3100 of the locking portion 311 in this modification example is set shorter than that of each locking piece 3100 of the first locking portion 311 of the operating device 1.

[0185] In the operating device 1, the second locking portion 312 provided at the left end of the back surface 31B is not provided in this modification example. Instead, in this modification 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. 20, 21, and 22).

[0186] The holding portion 314A holds the pair of rotating shafts 230A (see FIGS. 20 and 23) of the support portion 23A provided on the cover 21 of the housing 2, respectively. The holding portion 314A has a recess recessed forward, and the pair of rotating shafts 230A are press-fitted into the recess. As a result, the main body portion 31 (that is, the operation handle 3) is supported by the support portion 23A, and the right end portion of the operation handle 3 can rotate within a predetermined angular range with the pair of rotating shafts 230A as fulcrums (see the arrow in FIG. 24).

[0187] In short, in this modification example, the operation handle 3 has a mounting portion 3X for mounting to the housing 2, and the mounting portion 3X includes the above-described locking portion 311 and holding portion 314A.

[0188] The translucent cover 4 of this modified example is formed in an L-shaped plate shape as a whole. Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 20 to 22, the translucent cover 4 includes a right optical member 41 that covers the first opening 301 (see FIG. 25B) 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 modified example. The right optical member 41 and the cover member 42 are formed as one continuous and integral member, but they may also be separate members from each other.

[0189] Among the four operation handles 3, only the fourth operation handle 3H can pass through the right optical member 41 not only visible light from the first light emitting unit 11 and the second light emitting unit 12 but also light (infrared light) from the communication light emitting unit X1 (see FIG. 18) and light (infrared light) directed toward the communication light receiving unit Y1 (see FIG. 18).

[0190] 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 portion 311 into the corresponding locking hole 212 (see FIG. 23) from the front, the operation handle 3 is pushed backward so that the rotation shaft 230A is fitted into the depression of the holding portion 314A. As a result, the main body portion 31 is supported by the support portion 23A, and each locking piece 3100 is stably positioned within the locking hole 212.

[0191] Even if the main body portion 31 is pulled forward, the tip of the locking piece 3100 of the locking portion 311 is 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 23A. As a result, the operation handle 3 is prevented from falling off the housing 2.

[0192] As shown in FIGS. 23 and 25A, the cover 21 of this modified example has one or a plurality (here, four) of support portions 23A arranged near the left end so as to be arranged in the vertical direction in a front view. As described above, each support portion 23A has a pair of rotation shafts 230A that fit into the depressions of the corresponding operation handle 3.

[0193] In addition, as shown in FIG. 23, the cover 21 of this modified example has one or a plurality (here, four) of pressing portions 210 arranged side by side in the vertical direction when viewed from the front. The four pressing portions 210 are respectively arranged so as to correspond to the four support portions 23A. Each pressing portion 210 transmits a pressing operation from the operation handle 3 supported by the corresponding support portion 23A to the right button switch 6 (first button switch 61). As shown in FIG. 19, each pressing portion 210 has an extending portion 213 extending rightward and a pressing piece 211 provided on the back side of the tip portion 213A. The tip portion 213A of each extending portion 213 can move back and forth with the base as a fulcrum. As shown in FIG. 19, each extending portion 213 extends obliquely so as to protrude forward from the base toward the tip portion 213A. Therefore, when the user presses the operation surface 31A (surface 40) of the operation handle 3 with a fingertip or the like, an appropriate stress is received from the side of the extending portion 213. As a result, the operation feeling is improved.

[0194] For example, when the vicinity of the right side of the operation surface 31A (surface 40) of a certain operation handle 3 is pressed, a pair of right contact portions 334 on the back surface of the lid portion 33 of the operation handle 3 transmit the pressing 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, the tip portion 213A thereof is displaced backward, and the tip of the pressing piece 211 presses the right 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 button switch 6 by the tip portion 213A is released. In addition, the elastically returned extending portion 213 presses the contact portion 334 forward, so that the operation handle 3 returns to the position before being pressed.

[0195] In addition, the cover 21 of this modified example has one or a plurality (here, a total of eight) of locking holes 212 (see FIG. 23). 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.

[0196] In the locking holes 212A and 212B, two locking pieces 3100 provided on the main body 31 of the first operation handle 3E are respectively inserted. In the locking holes 212C and 212D, two locking pieces 3100 provided on the main body 31 of the second operation handle 3F are respectively inserted. In the locking holes 212E and 212F, two locking pieces 3100 provided on the main body 31 of the third operation handle 3G are respectively inserted. In the locking holes 212G and 212H, two locking pieces 3100 provided on the main body 31 of the fourth operation handle 3H are respectively inserted.

[0197] Further, as shown in FIG. 23, the cover 21 of this modification has one or a plurality (here, a total of four) 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. As shown in FIG. 23, the four housing-side openings 20 (20A to 20D) are arranged in the vertical direction between the eight locking holes 212A to 212H in the right column 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 so as to cover the corresponding right-side housing-side opening 20. That is, the operation handle 3 is arranged so as to cover the housing-side opening 20.

[0198] 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, almost all) of the first opening 301 on the right side of the first operation handle 3A.

[0199] 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, almost all) of the first opening 301 on the right side of the second operation handle 3B.

[0200] 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, almost all) of the first opening 301 on the right side of the third operation handle 3G.

[0201] The fourth operation handle 3H covers the opening 20D. In particular, in a 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.

[0202] As shown in FIG. 18, the four push-button switches 6 of this modification example are provided on the substrate 7. The four push-button switches 6 are arranged in a row in the vertical direction at a position closer to the right end in a front view of the first mounting surface 7A (front surface).

[0203] The topmost push-button switch 6 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 (surface 40) receives a pressing operation, the push-button switch 6 is turned on.

[0204] 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 (surface 40) receives a pressing operation, the push-button switch 6 is turned on.

[0205] 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 (surface 40) receives a pressing operation, the push-button switch 6 is turned on.

[0206] 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 (surface 40) receives a pressing operation, the push-button switch 6 is turned on.

[0207] 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.

[0208] As shown in FIG. 18, the four light-emitting groups G1 of the light-emitting unit 10 for display in this modification example are provided on the substrate 7. 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 unit 11 and the second light-emitting unit 12 of each light-emitting group G1 are arranged side by side in the longitudinal direction (here, the vertical direction) of the (corresponding) housing-side opening 20 (see FIGS. 25A and 25B).

[0209] Also in this modification 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 is a warm color and may be 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.

[0210] Also in this modification 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.

[0211] The first light-emitting unit 10A for display (see FIG. 18) is arranged corresponding to the first operation handle 3E. The first light-emitting unit 10A faces the opening 20A and further faces the first opening 301 of the first operation handle 3E. The visible light from the first light-emitting unit 10A is led out to the outside through the optical member 41 of the first operation handle 3E.

[0212] The second light-emitting unit 10B for display (see FIG. 18) is arranged corresponding to the second operation handle 3F. The second light-emitting unit 10B faces the opening 20B and further faces the first opening 301 of the second operation handle 3F. The visible light from the second light-emitting unit 10B is led out to the outside through the optical member 41 of the second operation handle 3F.

[0213] The third display light-emitting unit 10C (see FIG. 18) 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.

[0214] The fourth display light-emitting unit 10D (see FIG. 18) 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 from the optical member 41 of the fourth operation handle 3H.

[0215] One communication light-emitting unit X1 (see FIGS. 25A and 25B) 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 from 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.

[0216] One communication light-receiving unit Y1 (see FIGS. 25A and 25B) 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.

[0217] The operation of the operating device 1A of 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, and thus the description thereof is omitted.

[0218] (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 in 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 dispersedly on a plurality of chips. The plurality of chips may be integrated in one device, or may be provided dispersedly 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.

[0219] In addition, 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 in 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 in 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.

[0220] 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.

[0221] In the above-described operating device 1A, the handle-side opening 30X (first opening 301) provided in the operation surface 31A of the operation handle 3 is connected to the window hole (third opening 303), but the handle-side opening 30X and the window hole (third opening 303) do not necessarily have to be connected. As shown in FIGS. 26 and 27, a partition wall 31C that separates the handle-side opening 30X and the window hole (third opening 303) is provided integrally with the main body portion 31 of the operation handle 3. That is, the opening 30 includes the handle-side opening 30X and the window hole (third opening 303) that are separated from each other. Here, the partition wall 31C is provided along the vertical direction so as to connect between the upper peripheral portion and the lower peripheral portion of the opening 30 between the right end portion of the third opening 303 that is the window hole and the left end portion of the handle-side opening 30X (first opening 301).

[0222] A cover member 42 of the light-transmitting cover 4 is inserted into the third opening 303 serving as the window hole, and an optical member 41 is inserted into the first opening 301 serving as the handle-side opening 30X.

[0223] The optical member 41 attached to the first to fourth operation handles 3E to 3H guides the light from the display light-emitting unit 10 incident on the rear surface of the optical member 41 to the front surface of the optical member 41 and emits it to the outside from the front surface of the optical member 41. Further, the optical member 41 attached to the fourth operation handle 3H guides the light from 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 emits it to the outside from the front surface of the optical member 41. Further, the optical member 41 attached to the fourth operation handle 3H guides the light from the setter 500 incident on the front surface of the optical member 41 to the rear surface of the optical member 41 and emits it from the rear surface of the optical member 41 to the communication light-receiving unit Y1.

[0224] Also, when the name plate 32 is disposed on the back side of the operation handle 3, the characters etc. of the name plate 32 can be visually recognized from the front side of the operating device 1 through the cover member 42 inserted into the window hole (third opening 303).

[0225] As shown in FIGS. 26 and 27, the handle-side opening 30X is separated from the window hole (third opening 303) by the partition wall 31C, and the optical member 41 is inserted into the handle-side opening 30X. Here, when setting the load address of the push-button switch 6 using the setter 500, the portion of the housing of the setter 500 where the communication module 502 is housed is opposed to the optical member 41. Since the optical member 41 is inserted into the handle-side opening 30X separated from the window hole (third opening 303), the position of the optical member 41 for opposing the portion where the communication module 502 is housed becomes clear, and there is an advantage that the workability of the setting operation is improved.

[0226] Note that the cover member 42 and the optical member 41 are provided integrally, but the cover member 42 and the optical member 41 may be separate members.

[0227] Also, in the operation device 1 of the above-described embodiment as well, similar to the operation device 1A shown in FIGS. 26 and 27, each of the first opening 301 and the second opening 302, which are the handle-side openings 30X, and the third opening 303 serving as the window hole may be separated by a partition wall provided in the main body portion 31.

[0228] In the operation devices 1 and 1A described above, the communication light-emitting portion X1 and the communication light-receiving portion Y1 for wireless communication with the setter 500 are arranged to correspond to the lowermost operation handle 3 (fourth operation handles 3D and 3H) among the four operation handles 3. Therefore, the communication light-emitting portion X1 and the communication light-receiving portion Y1 are at a height position where it is easy for the user to perform address setting using the setter 500. However, the communication light-emitting portion X1 and the communication light-receiving portion Y1 may be arranged to correspond to operation handles 3 other than the lowermost operation handle 3 among the four operation handles 3 (for example, the first operation handles 3A and 3E).

[0229] (4) Summary The operating device (1, 1A) of the first aspect includes a substrate (7), a housing (2), and an operation handle (3). The substrate (7) is provided with a display light-emitting part (10), a communication light-emitting part (X1), a communication light-receiving part (Y1), and a push-button switch (6). The housing (2) houses the substrate (7). The operation handle (3) has an operation surface (31A) for receiving operations, and is attached to the housing (2) in a state where the push-button switch (6) can be pressed according to the operation of the operation surface (31A). 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 part (X1) and the light received by the communication light-receiving part (Y1) and the light emitted by the display light-emitting part (10) can pass. The operation surface (31A) of the operation handle (3) is provided with a handle-side opening (30X) through which the light passing through the housing-side opening (20) can pass.

[0230] According to this aspect, the handle-side opening (30X) provided in the operation surface (31A) of the operation handle (3) allows at least one of the light emitted by the communication light-emitting part (X1) and the light received by the communication light-receiving part (Y1) and the light emitted by the display light-emitting part (10) to pass through. Therefore, in the housing (2), it is also possible to arrange the operation handle (3) in the arrangement space where at least one of the communication light-emitting part (X1) and the communication light-receiving part (Y1) and the display light-emitting part (10) is arranged, and there is an advantage that the degree of freedom in arranging the operation handle (3) is improved.

[0231] In the operating device (1, 1A) of the second aspect, in the first aspect, the light emitted by the communication light-emitting part (X1), the light received by the communication light-receiving part (Y1), and the light emitted by the display light-emitting part (10) can pass through the housing-side opening (20).

[0232] According to this aspect, the handle-side opening (30X) provided in the operation surface (31A) of the operation handle (3) allows 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) to pass through. Therefore, in the housing (2), it is possible to arrange the operation handle (3) in the arrangement space where the communication light-emitting unit (X1), the communication light-receiving unit (Y1), and the display light-emitting unit (10) are arranged, and there is an advantage that the degree of freedom in arranging the operation handle (3) is improved.

[0233] In the operating device (1, 1A) of the third aspect, in the first or second aspect, the operation handle (3) has a light-transmissive optical member (41) arranged in the handle-side opening (30X).

[0234] According to this aspect, 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 be transmitted through the optical member (41) and indirectly emitted.

[0235] In the operating device (1, 1A) of the fourth aspect, in the third aspect, in a state where the operation handle (3) is attached to the housing (2), a protruding portion (410) protruding toward the substrate (7) is provided on the optical member (41). 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).

[0236] According to this aspect, 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 be indirectly emitted through the protruding portion (410) of the optical member (41).

[0237] In the operating device (1, 1A) of the fifth aspect, in any of the first to fourth aspects, a window hole (303) is provided in a part of the operation surface (31A) of the operation handle (3) different from the handle-side opening (30X).

[0238] According to this aspect, for example, when the nameplate (32) is arranged on the back side of the operation handle (3), the characters on the nameplate (32) can be visually recognized through the window hole (303).

[0239] In the operating device (1, 1A) of the sixth aspect, in the fifth aspect, the operation handle (3) has a light-transmissive cover member (42) arranged in the window hole (303).

[0240] According to this aspect, for example, when the nameplate (32) is arranged on the back side of the operation handle (3), the characters on the nameplate (32) can be visually recognized through the cover member (42) arranged in the window hole (303).

[0241] In the operating device (1, 1A) of the seventh aspect, in the sixth aspect, a lid portion (33) is provided on the operation handle (3) to cover the surface of the cover member (42) on the side opposite to the operation surface (31A).

[0242] According to this aspect, for example, when the nameplate (32) is arranged on the back side of the operation handle (3), the nameplate (32) can be held between the cover member (42) and the lid portion (33).

[0243] In the operating device (1, 1A) of the eighth aspect, in the seventh aspect, the lid portion (33) has a first end portion (33A) and a second end portion (33B) facing each other. The second end portion (33B) of the lid portion (33) is supported by the operation handle (3) in a state where the first end portion (33A) is rotatable about the second end portion (33B).

[0244] According to this aspect, the nameplate (32) can be attached or detached with the lid portion (33) open.

[0245] In the operating device (1, 1A) of the ninth aspect, in the eighth aspect, at a part of the lid portion (33) on the side opposite to the operation surface (31A) of the operation handle (3), a gripping portion (333) protrudes in a direction opposite to the operation handle (3) from a position closer to the first end portion (33A) than the second end portion (33B).

[0246] According to this aspect, the lid portion (33) can be opened and closed by holding the gripping portion (333).

[0247] In the operating device (1, 1A) of the tenth aspect, in any one of the fifth to ninth aspects, the handle-side opening (30X) and the window hole (303) are connected.

[0248] According to this aspect, there is an advantage that it is easier to manufacture compared to the case where the handle-side opening (30X) and the window hole (303) are provided separately.

[0249] In the operating device (1, 1A) of the eleventh aspect, in any one of the fifth to tenth aspects, the operation handle (3) has a light-transmissive optical member (41) disposed in the handle-side opening (30X) and a light-transmissive cover member (42) disposed in the window hole (303). The optical member (41) and the cover member (42) are integrally provided.

[0250] According to this aspect, there is an advantage that the workability of the assembly work is improved compared to the case where the optical member (41) and the cover member (42) are separate parts.

[0251] In the operating device (1, 1A) of the twelfth aspect, in any one of the first to eleventh aspects, the display light-emitting portion (10) is located between the communication light-emitting portion (X1) and the communication light-receiving portion (Y1).

[0252] According to this aspect, it becomes possible to dispose the display light-emitting portion (10) at the center of the handle-side opening (30X).

[0253] In the operating device (1, 1A) according to the 13th aspect, in any of the 1st to 12th aspects, the display light-emitting unit (10) has a plurality of light-emitting units (11, 12) with mutually different emission colors.

[0254] According to this aspect, a variety of displays can be performed by the plurality of light-emitting units (11, 12) with mutually different emission colors.

[0255] In the operating device (1, 1A) according to the 14th aspect, in the 13th aspect, the plurality of light-emitting units (11, 12) include a first light-emitting unit (11) and a second light-emitting unit (12). The communication light-emitting unit (X1) and the communication light-receiving unit (Y1) are located between the first light-emitting unit (11) and the second light-emitting unit (12).

[0256] According to this aspect, the communication light-emitting unit (X1) and the communication light-receiving unit (Y1) can be arranged close to each other.

[0257] In the operating device (1, 1A) according to the 15th aspect, in the 13th aspect, the plurality of light-emitting units (11, 12) include a first light-emitting unit (11) and a second light-emitting unit (12). The first light-emitting unit (11) is located between the communication light-emitting unit (X1) and the communication light-receiving unit (Y1), and either the communication light-emitting unit (X1) or the communication light-receiving unit (Y1) is located between the first light-emitting unit (11) and the second light-emitting unit (12).

[0258] According to this aspect, the first light-emitting unit (11) and the second light-emitting unit (12) can be arranged separately.

[0259] In the operating device (1, 1A) according to the 16th aspect, in any of the 1st to 15th aspects, a plurality of operation handles (3) are provided. The plurality of operation handles (3) are arranged side by side in the longitudinal direction of the operating device (1, 1A). On the substrate (7), at positions corresponding to each of the plurality of operation handles (3), a display light-emitting unit (10) and a push-button switch (6) are provided, and at positions corresponding to at least one of the plurality of operation handles (3), a communication light-emitting unit (X1) and a communication light-receiving unit (Y1) are provided.

[0260] According to this aspect, it becomes possible to operate a plurality of push-button switches (6) with one operating device (1, 1A).

[0261] The communication system (110) according to the 17th aspect includes an operating device (1, 1A) according to any one of the 1st to 16th aspects and a communication device (111) that communicates with the operating device (1, 1A).

[0262] According to this aspect, it is possible to realize a communication system (110) including an operating device (1, 1A) that can improve operability.

[0263] The operation handle (3) according to the 18th aspect includes a main body portion (31) having an operation surface (31A) and an attachment portion (3X) that attaches the main body portion (31) to the housing (2) of the operating device (1, 1A) in a state where the push-button switch (6) can be pressed according to the operation of the operation surface (31A). The operating device (1, 1A) includes a substrate (7) and a housing (2). A display light-emitting portion (10), a communication light-emitting portion (X1), a communication light-receiving portion (Y1), and a push-button switch (6) are provided on the substrate (7). The housing (2) houses the substrate (7). 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 portion (X1) and the light received by the communication light-receiving portion (Y1) and the light emitted by the display light-emitting portion (10) can pass. A handle-side opening (30X) through which the light passing through the housing-side opening (20) can pass is provided in the operation surface (31A) of the main body portion (31).

[0264] According to this aspect, it is possible to realize an operating device (1, 1A) that can improve the degree of freedom in arranging the operation handle (3).

[0265] The operation device main body (1X) of the 19th aspect includes a substrate (7) provided with a display light emitting unit (10), a communication light emitting unit (X1), a communication light receiving unit (Y1), and a push button switch (6), and a housing (2) that houses the substrate (7). The housing (2) includes a support portion (23) for attaching an operation handle (3) in a state where the push button switch (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.

[0266] According to this aspect, there is an advantage that the degree of freedom in arranging the operation handle (3) attached to the operation device main body (1X) is improved.

[0267] The configurations according to the 2nd to 16th aspects are not essential configurations for the operation device (1, 1A) according to the 1st aspect and can be omitted as appropriate.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0268] 1, 1A Operation device 1X Operation device main body 2 Housing 3 Operation handle 3X Attachment portion 6 Push button switch 7 Substrate 10 Display light emitting unit 11 First light emitting unit (light emitting unit) 12 Second light emitting unit (light emitting unit) 20 Housing side opening 23 Support portion 30X Handle side opening 31 Main body portion 31A Operation surface 33 Lid portion 33A First end 33B Second end 41 Optical member 42 Cover member 110 Communication system 111 Communication device 303 Window hole 333 Gripping portion 410 Protrusion Light-emitting section for X1 communication Light-receiving section for Y1 communication

Claims

1. a substrate provided with a display light-emitting section, a communication light-emitting section, a communication light-receiving section, and a push button switch; A housing for housing the substrate; an operation handle having an operation surface that receives an operation, the operation handle being attached to the housing in a state in which the push button switch can be pressed in response to an operation of the operation surface; the housing has a housing-side opening through which at least one of the light emitted by the communication light-emitting unit and the light received by the communication light-receiving unit and the light emitted by the display light-emitting unit can pass; A handle-side opening through which light passing through the housing-side opening can pass is provided on the operation surface of the operation handle. Operator.

2. light emitted by the communication light-emitting unit, light received by the communication light-receiving unit, and light emitted by the display light-emitting unit can pass through the housing-side opening; The controller according to claim 1 .

3. The operating handle has a light-transmitting optical member disposed in the handle-side opening. The controller according to claim 1 .

4. a protrusion protruding toward the substrate in a state in which the operating handle is attached to the housing is provided on the optical member; When the operating handle is attached to the housing, at least a part of the protrusion is inserted into the housing-side opening. The controller according to claim 3 .

5. The operation surface of the operation handle is provided with a window hole at a position different from the handle side opening. The controller according to claim 1 .

6. The operating handle has a light-transmitting cover member disposed in the window hole. The controller according to claim 5 .

7. The operating handle is provided with a lid portion that covers a surface of the cover member opposite to the operating surface. The controller according to claim 6.

8. The cover portion has a first end and a second end opposed to each other, The second end of the cover portion is supported by the operating handle in a state in which the first end is rotatable around the second end. The controller according to claim 7.

9. A grip portion is provided on a portion of the cover portion opposite to the operation surface of the operation handle, the grip portion protruding in a direction opposite to the operation handle from a position closer to the first end than the second end. The controller according to claim 8.

10. The handle side opening and the window hole are connected. The controller according to claim 5 .

11. The operating handle has a translucent optical member disposed in the handle side opening, and a translucent cover member disposed in the window hole, The optical member and the cover member are integrally provided. The controller according to claim 5 .

12. The display light-emitting unit is located between the communication light-emitting unit and the communication light-receiving unit. The controller according to claim 1 .

13. The display light-emitting unit has a plurality of light-emitting units each having a different light-emitting color. The controller according to claim 1 .

14. The plurality of light-emitting units include a first light-emitting unit and a second light-emitting unit, The communication light-emitting unit and the communication light-receiving unit are located between the first light-emitting unit and the second light-emitting unit. The actuator according to claim 13.

15. The plurality of light-emitting units include a first light-emitting unit and a second light-emitting unit, the first light-emitting unit is located between the communication light-emitting unit and the communication light-receiving unit, Either the communication light-emitting unit or the communication light-receiving unit is located between the first light-emitting unit and the second light-emitting unit. The actuator according to claim 13.

16. A plurality of the operating handles are provided, The plurality of operating handles are arranged in a line in a longitudinal direction of the operating device, The substrate includes: The display light emitting unit and the push button switch are provided at positions corresponding to each of the plurality of operating handles, The communication light-emitting unit and the communication light-receiving unit are provided at a position corresponding to at least one of the plurality of operating handles. The controller according to claim 1 .

17. An operating device according to any one of claims 1 to 16, A communication device that communicates with the controller. Communication systems.

18. A main body having an operation surface; an operating device including a board on which a display light-emitting unit, a communication light-emitting unit, a communication light-receiving unit, and a push button switch are provided, and a housing that houses the board and has a housing side opening through which at least one of light emitted by the communication light-emitting unit and light received by the communication light-receiving unit and light emitted by the display light-emitting unit can pass; and an attachment section for attaching the main body to the housing in a state in which the push button switch can be pressed in response to operation of the operation surface; The operation surface of the main body is provided with a handle-side opening through which light passing through the housing-side opening can pass. Operating handle.

19. a substrate provided with a display light-emitting section, a communication light-emitting section, a communication light-receiving section, and a push button switch; A housing that houses the substrate, the housing includes a support portion for attaching an operating handle in a state in which the push button switch can be pressed, The housing has a housing-side opening through which at least one of the light emitted by the communication light-emitting unit and the light received by the communication light-receiving unit and the light emitted by the display light-emitting unit can pass. 、 The controller body.

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