Operation apparatus and operation reception method

Abstract

To provide an operation apparatus capable of improving the operability of a device by changing the rotational load applied to a rotating body depending on an operation direction, even if the operation is performed within the same rotation range, when operating a setting value of the device using the operation apparatus equipped with the rotating body.SOLUTION: An operation apparatus comprises: a rotating body for receiving an operation to change a setting value of a device; a detector for detecting the amount and direction of rotation of the rotating body; and a brake that applies a rotational load to the rotating body. The brake applies different rotational loads when the rotating body rotates in a first direction through a specific rotation range and when the rotating body rotates in a second direction through the rotation range.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an operation device and an operation reception method. [Background technology]

[0002] An operating device equipped with a fluid brake has been proposed (for example, Patent Document 1). The operating device according to Patent Document 1 reduces the power consumption of the fluid brake by performing a no-energization control when the wheel is not rotating. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2024-010554 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] When rotating the rotating body of an operating device to change the settings of a device, the degree of caution required may differ depending on the direction of operation, even when the operation is within the same operating range. For example, when controlling the volume of an audio device, in the high volume operating range, the operation to increase the volume generally requires more caution than the operation to decrease the volume. It is the operation to increase the volume that, if performed incorrectly, can cause problems such as acoustic trauma or equipment failure.

[0005] The object of the present disclosure is to provide an operating device and an operation reception method that can improve the operability of an equipment when operating the setting values ​​of the equipment using an operating device equipped with a rotating body, by changing the rotational load applied to the rotating body depending on the direction of operation, even when the operation is within the same rotation range. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] An operating device according to one aspect of the present disclosure is an operating device including a rotating body for receiving an operation to change a setting value of an equipment, a detector for detecting the amount and direction of rotation of the rotating body, and a brake for applying a rotational load to the rotating body, wherein the brake applies a different rotational load when the rotating body rotates in a first direction through a specific rotation range and when the rotating body rotates in a second direction through the rotation range.

[0007] An operation reception method according to one aspect of the present disclosure is an operation reception method that receives an operation to change a setting value of an equipment using an operating device equipped with a rotating body, and detects the amount and direction of rotation of the rotating body, and applies different rotational loads when the rotating body rotates in a first direction through a specific rotation range and when it rotates in a second direction through the rotation range. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present disclosure, when operating the setting values ​​of an equipment using an operating device equipped with a rotating body, even if the operation is within the same rotation range, the operability of the equipment can be improved by changing the rotational load applied to the rotating body depending on the operation direction. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing a music playback system according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a music playback system. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a volume operation setting table according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] 4 is a graph showing the contents of a volume operation setting table in the first embodiment. [Figure 5] 10 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of a control unit relating to a volume operation. [Figure 6] 10A and 10B are schematic diagrams showing a method for setting a rotation load related to a volume operation. [Figure 7] 10A and 10B are schematic diagrams showing a method for setting a rotation load related to a volume operation. [Figure 8]10 is a flowchart showing a procedure for setting a rotation load related to a volume operation. [Figure 9] 10 is a graph showing the contents of a first volume operation setting table and a second volume operation setting table in the second embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 11 is a conceptual diagram showing a volume operation setting table according to the third embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a conceptual diagram showing a volume operation setting table according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 13 is a conceptual diagram showing a volume operation setting table according to the fifth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] An operating device and an operation receiving method according to embodiments of the present disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. Note that the present disclosure is not limited to these examples, but is defined by the claims, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims. In addition, at least some of the embodiments described below may be combined in any manner.

[0011] (Embodiment 1) Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing a music playback system according to the first embodiment, and Fig. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the music playback system. The music playback system includes an operation device 1 according to the first embodiment and a music playback device 2. The music playback device 2 is connected to the operation device 1 by wire or wirelessly. The operation device 1 may be incorporated into the music playback device 2.

[0012] The music playback device 2 is, for example, a smartphone, a tablet terminal, a personal computer, or the like connected to an external speaker 20. The music playback device 2 includes, for example, a processor, a memory, a display unit 21, an operation unit 22, a communication circuit, a built-in speaker, and a microphone.

[0013] The display unit 21 is a display device such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL display. The operation unit 22 is, for example, a touch panel built into the display unit 21. The communication circuit is a circuit for communicating with the operation device 1. The volume output by the music playback device 2 is controlled by the operation device 1. While FIG. 1 shows an example in which an external speaker 20 is connected to the music playback device 2, it is of course also possible to output sound from a built-in speaker. The music playback device 2 is an example of a device whose setting value is changed by the operation device 1, and the volume set in the music playback device 2 is an example of a volume related to the output of a device according to the present disclosure.

[0014] The operation device 1 is a device that accepts operations to change setting values ​​such as volume and left / right balance set in the music playback device 2. In the first embodiment, the operation to adjust the volume will be mainly described.

[0015] The operating device 1 is a generally cylindrical device and includes a hollow cylindrical housing 10 and a disk-shaped rotating body 11. The rotating body 11 is rotatably provided on one end side (the top side in FIG. 1 ) of the housing 10 so that the center line of the rotating body 11 approximately coincides with the center line of the housing 10. The operating device 1 includes a fluid brake 12, a rotation detector 13, a control unit 14, a storage unit 15, and a communication unit (acquisition unit) 16 inside the housing 10.

[0016] The rotating body 11 is a member for receiving an operation to change the volume of the music playback device 2. The rotating body 11 has a rotation shaft 11a protruding from the center. A hole is formed in the center of the top surface of the housing 10, and the rotation shaft 11a of the rotating body 11 is rotatably inserted into the hole. The rotating body 11 can freely rotate 360 ​​degrees or more relative to the housing 10.

[0017] The fluid brake 12 is a device that applies a rotational load to the rotating body 11. The fluid brake 12 has a hollow plate-shaped or hollow columnar casing that houses a magnetorheological fluid (MRF) and a rotor. The tip of a rotating shaft 11a provided on the rotating body 11 is connected to the rotor of the fluid brake 12, and the rotor and rotating body 11 are subjected to a rotational resistance force due to the magnetorheological fluid. The fluid brake 12 also includes an electromagnet (not shown) for applying a magnetic field to the magnetorheological fluid. Specifically, the electromagnet has a yoke arranged across a gap to sandwich the disk-shaped rotor, and a coil attached to the yoke. When a current flows through the coil, a magnetic field is generated, which changes the viscosity (shear stress) of the magnetorheological fluid and applies a rotational resistance force to the rotating shaft 11a. By controlling the current flowing through the electromagnet, the magnitude of the rotational load acting on the rotor 11 can be controlled. Furthermore, by passing a pulsed current through the electromagnet, a rotational operation sensation like vibration can be imparted. Furthermore, by passing a steep current through the electromagnet, a clicking sensation can be imparted. The rotor 11 can also be fixed by passing a current greater than a predetermined value through the electromagnet.

[0018] Although the fluid brake 12 using a magnetorheological fluid has been described as a device for applying a rotational load to the rotating body 11, the brake may also be configured using an electrorheological fluid whose viscosity changes in response to an electric field, or other functional fluid whose viscosity changes under electrical control. The brake may also be configured using brake pads that apply a rotational load by frictional force, or a motor that applies rotational resistance. The fluid brake 12 also includes brakes that use powder, such as powder brakes.

[0019] The rotation detector 13 is a sensor that detects the amount and direction of rotation of the rotating body 11. The rotation detector 13 detects, for example, the amount and direction of rotation of the rotating body 11 and outputs a signal indicating the detected amount and direction of rotation to the control unit 14. The rotation detector 13 may be a type that detects the amount and direction of rotation by detecting the rotation position from a reference position. The rotation detector 13 may be a mechanical, optical, magnetic, or electric induction type detector, but the detection principle is not particularly limited.

[0020] The control unit 14 detects the amount and direction of rotation of the rotor 11 based on the signal output from the rotation detector 13. The control unit 14 converts the amount of rotation of the rotor 11 into a volume control amount. The control unit 14 also determines the rotational load to be applied to the rotor 11 based on the current volume and the rotational direction of the rotor 11, and controls the rotational load of the rotor 11 by passing a current corresponding to the determined rotational load through the electromagnet of the fluid brake 12. Specifically, the control unit 14 refers to a volume operation setting table 15a (described later) to identify a rotation load corresponding to the current volume. However, in a specific volume operation region (rotation range) where the volume is high, the control unit 14 applies a different rotation load depending on the rotation direction of the rotating body 11. Details will be described later. The control unit 14 may be configured to perform distributed processing with the music playback device 2, or may be configured to perform distributed processing with another computer.

[0021] The storage unit 15 is a non-volatile memory such as a flash memory, etc. The storage unit 15 stores a volume operation setting table 15a and a volume balance setting table 15b.

[0022] FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram showing the volume operation setting table 15a according to the first embodiment. The volume operation setting table 15a stores a volume operation area number, a volume operation area width, a current value (rotation load), a pulse frequency of the rotation load, a rate of change of the volume relative to the amount of rotation of the rotating body 11, and information indicating whether or not the area is a dangerous area (important operation area), in association with each other.

[0023] Fig. 4 is a graph showing the contents of the volume operation setting table 15a in embodiment 1. Fig. 4A is a graph showing the current value related to the fluid brake 12 when the rotating body 11 rotates clockwise (first direction). Clockwise rotation is the rotation direction of the rotating body 11 in which the volume increases. Fig. 4B is a graph showing the current value related to the fluid brake 12 when the rotating body 11 rotates counterclockwise (second direction). Counterclockwise rotation is the rotation direction of the rotating body 11 in which the volume decreases.

[0024] The horizontal axis represents the volume, and the vertical axis represents the current value of the fluid brake 12. The adjustable volume range is divided into, for example, four regions. Hereinafter, these will be referred to as Region 1, Region 2, Region 3, and Region 4, in order from lowest to highest volume. Region 4 is a dangerous region related to the operation of the music playback device 2, that is, a volume operation region where there is a risk of high volume being output. The other regions 1 to 3 are non-dangerous regions (normal operation regions).

[0025] The rotational load applied to the rotor 11 when the rotor 11 rotates clockwise (first direction), that is, when the volume is increased, will be described.

[0026] In region 1, the rotational load applied to the rotating body 11 is the smallest. In the example shown in FIG. 4, the current value of the fluid brake 12 is zero. There is little point in fine-tuning the volume within the range of region 1, and it is desirable to increase the volume up to region 2. For this reason, the rotating body 11 is designed to rotate smoothly without any rotational load. The user can easily turn the rotating body 11 and increase the volume up to the volume corresponding to region 2.

[0027] Region 2 is a region where a certain level of volume begins to be heard, and a small rotational load is applied to the rotating body 11. A low-frequency pulsed rotational load is also applied to the rotating body 11. The amplitude of the pulsed rotational load is not particularly limited, but it is preferable to set the amplitude to, for example, the current value stored in the volume operation setting table 15a. In other words, it is preferable to periodically vary the rotational load between a current value of zero and the current value. Furthermore, the rate of change in volume relative to the amount of rotation of the rotating body 11 is smaller than in Region 1.

[0028] In region 3, a sudden increase or decrease in volume is undesirable and fine volume adjustment is required, so a moderate rotational load is applied to the rotating body 11. A pulsed rotational load of a moderate frequency is also applied to the rotating body 11. Furthermore, the rate of change in volume relative to the amount of rotation of the rotating body 11 is smaller than in region 2. The user can adjust the volume by rotating the rotating body 11, which feels a moderate resistance and vibration. In addition, since the user may feel uncomfortable if the rotation load of the rotating body 11 suddenly changes when the volume transitions from region 2 to region 3, it is preferable that the control unit 14 continuously change the rotation load in the transition region from region 2 to region 3.

[0029] Since region 4 is a region where a high volume may be output, a large rotational load is applied to the rotating body 11. Also, a high-frequency pulse-like rotational load is applied to the rotating body 11. Furthermore, the rate of change in volume relative to the amount of rotation of the rotating body 11 is smaller than in region 3. A high volume output may cause acoustic trauma, such as impairing the user's hearing. The user cannot increase the volume unless they turn the rotating body 11 a large amount, which creates a sense of resistance and vibration. This makes it possible to prevent a high volume from being output due to a user's incorrect operation.

[0030] On the other hand, the rotational load applied to the rotor 11 when the rotor 11 is rotated left (second direction), that is, when the volume is decreased, will be described.

[0031] The rotational load applied to the rotating body 11 in the first to third regions is the same as that applied when rotating to the right. The rotational load applied to the rotating body 11 rotating to the left in the fourth region is different from the rotational load applied when rotating to the right. Specifically, the rotational load applied to the rotating body 11 rotating to the left is small, for example, the same as in the second region. Furthermore, it is desirable that the rate of change in volume relative to the amount of rotation of the rotating body 11 is larger than that when rotating to the right. When rotating the rotating body 11 to the left, the load on the rotating body 11 is small and the rate of change is also large, so the volume can be quickly reduced. Even if a high volume is output due to a user's mistaken operation, the rotating body 11 can be easily rotated to the left to quickly reduce the volume.

[0032] 5 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the control unit 14 related to volume operation. The control unit 14 of the operation device 1 detects the amount of rotation and the direction of rotation of the rotating body 11 based on the signal output from the rotation sensor (step S111). Then, the control unit 14 determines whether the rotating body 11 is rotating or not (step S112). If it is determined that the rotating body 11 is not rotating (step S112: NO), the control unit 14 returns the processing to step S111 and continues monitoring the rotation of the rotating body 11.

[0033] When it is determined that the rotating body 11 is rotating (step S112: YES), the control unit 14 identifies the current volume operation area (step S113). The memory unit 15 of the operation device 1 stores the volume set in the music playback device 2, and the control unit 14 can refer to the volume stored in the memory unit 15. By storing the volume set in the music playback device 2 in the operation device 1, a rotation load corresponding to the rotation of the rotating body 11 can be immediately applied. Note that, when a volume operation is performed by operating the touch panel on the music playback device 2 side, it is preferable that information indicating the changed volume is transmitted to the operation device 1 each time. The operation device 1 receives the information transmitted from the music playback device 2 and stores it in the memory unit 15. By sharing information about the current volume between the music playback device 2 and the operation device 1, a rotation load corresponding to the set volume can be constantly applied to the rotating body 11. The control unit 14 may obtain information on the currently set volume from the music playback device 2.

[0034] Then, the control unit 14 refers to the volume operation setting table 15a and applies to the rotating body 11 a current value (rotational load), pulse frequency, rate of change of volume relative to the amount of rotation of the rotating body 11, and a rotational load according to the rotation direction of the rotating body 11 corresponding to the current volume operation range (step S114).

[0035] Specifically, when the volume is in region 1 to region 3, the control unit 14 determines the current value and pulse frequency according to the contents of the volume operation setting table 15a, and applies a current corresponding to the current value and pulse frequency to the fluid brake 12. A rotational load and a pulse-like load corresponding to each region are applied to the rotating body 11.

[0036] When the volume is in region 4, which is a dangerous region, the control unit 14 changes the rotational load applied to the rotating body 11 depending on the rotation direction of the rotating body 11. When the rotating body 11 is rotating clockwise, the control unit 14 determines a current value according to the contents of the volume operation setting table 15a in the same manner as described above, and applies a current corresponding to the current value to the fluid brake 12. In particular, since region 4, which is a dangerous region where a loud volume is output, a rotational load that is larger than the other regions 1 to 3 and that generates a high-frequency pulse sensation is applied to the rotating body 11. When the rotating body 11 is rotating counterclockwise, the control unit 14 applies a current to the fluid brake 12 so that a low rotational load without a pulse is applied to the rotating body 11. In the example shown in FIG. 4, a rotational load without a pulse, which is similar to that in region 2, is applied to the rotating body 11.

[0037] Next, the control unit 14 increases or decreases the volume according to the amount of rotation of the rotating body 11 (step S115), and returns the process to step S111. Specifically, the control unit 14 transmits volume data indicating the amount of increase or decrease in the volume, or volume data indicating the volume after the increase or decrease, to the music playback device 2. The control unit 14 also stores the increased or decreased volume in the storage unit 15.

[0038] The music playback device 2 receives the volume data transmitted from the operation device 1 and increases or decreases the volume based on the received volume data. Furthermore, the music playback device 2 changes the position of the volume display slider in response to the increase or decrease in the volume.

[0039] 6 and 7 are schematic diagrams showing a method for setting a rotation load related to a volume operation, and FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a process for setting a rotation load related to a volume operation. That is, this is an example of a process for generating a volume operation setting table 15a. As shown in the left diagram of FIG. 6, the control unit 14 of the operation device 1 displays a setting target selection screen 3 (step S121) and receives a setting value of the setting target (step S122). Specifically, the control unit 14 transmits data constituting the setting target selection screen 3 to the music playback device 2 and causes the display unit 21 of the music playback device 2 to display the setting target selection screen 3. Thereafter, various setting screens are similarly displayed on the music playback device 2. The setting target selection screen 3 includes, for example, a name display 31 of the setting value and an adjustment bar 32 indicating an operation area for the setting value. The name display 31 is, for example, text such as "balance" or "volume."

[0040] There are multiple setting values ​​that can be operated using the rotating body 11, such as volume and volume balance. The rotation load and operation feel generated on the rotating body 11 according to the operation range of the setting value can be set for each of multiple types of setting values. The control unit 14 accepts the selection of a setting value that changes the rotation load and operation feel of the rotating body 11 from among the multiple types of setting values. In the first embodiment, the user can select a setting target from volume balance and volume, as shown in the left diagram of FIG. 6. The following description will be given assuming that the user has selected volume.

[0041] When a setting target is selected, the control unit 14 displays a number-of-areas setting screen 4 on the display unit 21 of the music playback device 2 (step S123), as shown in the right diagram of Fig. 6. The number-of-areas setting screen 4 includes an input field 41 for the number of areas, a name display 42 of the setting value, an adjustment bar 43 indicating the operation area of ​​the setting value, and a double-headed arrow 44 indicating the width of each of the multiple areas currently set. The right diagram of Fig. 6 shows a state in which the volume operation area is divided into three areas.

[0042] Next, the control unit 14 receives the number of operation areas from the operation unit 22 of the music playback device 2 (step S124). That is, the control unit 14 receives the number of areas for changing the method of applying the rotational load. When the "Next" button 45 is operated, the area setting is confirmed. When the user inputs "4" as the number of areas and operates the "Next" button 45, the volume operation area is divided into four, as shown in the left diagram of FIG. 7.

[0043] Next, the control unit 14 causes the display unit 21 of the music playback device 2 to display an operation area width setting screen 5, as shown in the left diagram of Fig. 7 (step S125). The operation area width setting screen 5 includes a name display 51 of the setting value, an adjustment bar 52 indicating the operation area of ​​the setting value, and a double-headed arrow 53 indicating the width of each of the multiple areas.

[0044] Then, control unit 14 accepts the setting of the width of each operation area (step S126). The user can change the width of each operation area by sliding double-headed arrow 53. When "Next" button 54 is operated, the setting of the width of each operation area is confirmed.

[0045] Next, as shown in the right diagram of FIG. 7 , the control unit 14 displays the operation feel setting screen 6 on the display unit 21 of the music playback device 2 (step S127) and accepts the magnitude of the rotational load, pulse frequency, etc. for each volume operation area (step S128). The operation feel setting screen 6 includes a setting input unit 61 that accepts settings for the rotational load, pulse frequency, and whether or not the operation area is a danger area for each of the multiple operation areas, a name display 62 of the setting value, an adjustment bar 63 that indicates the operation area for the setting value, and a double-headed arrow 64 that indicates the width of each of the multiple areas currently set. The setting input unit 61 includes an input box "Weight" for selecting whether or not a rotational load is applied and the magnitude of the rotational load for each of the multiple operation areas, an input box "Pulse" for selecting whether or not a rotational load pulse is applied and the frequency, and a check box "Danger Area" for selecting whether or not the operation area is a danger area.

[0046] In the input box "Weight" and input box "Pulse", the magnitude of the rotation load and pulse frequency can be selected and input from "None", "Small", "Medium" and "Large". When the "Danger Zone" checkbox is checked, the "Weight" and "Pulse" input boxes are automatically set to "Large." In addition, the rotation load in the direction from the danger zone to the non-danger zone is automatically set to "None" or "Low." The rate of change in volume relative to the amount of rotation of the rotor 11 is automatically set according to the magnitude of the rotation load and the pulse frequency. When the "Done" button 65 is pressed, the rotation load for each operation area is finalized. Once the rotation load and other details for each operation area are finalized, the control unit 14 stores the set details as the volume operation setting table 15a in the storage unit 15 (step S129) and terminates the process. That is, the control unit 14 generates or updates the volume operation setting table 15a based on the details received in the process of step S128. Specifically, the volume operation setting table 15a generates records equal to the number of set operation areas. Each record stores the width of the operation area set on the operation area width setting screen 5. Each record also stores information indicating the current value, pulse frequency, and presence or absence of a danger area, corresponding to the above-mentioned "weight," "pulse," and "danger area" details. The storage unit 15 stores the volume operation setting table 15a thus generated or updated.

[0047] The operation feel setting screen 6 may be configured to output sample music of the volume for each area. The volume can be adjusted by operating the arrow of the adjustment bar 63 on the operation feel setting screen 6. Also, a rotation load according to the currently selected setting content may be applied to the rotating body 11 while the sample music is being played. The user can set the rotation load and operation feel for each operation area while checking the volume and the operation feel of the rotating body 11.

[0048] Furthermore, when displaying the operation feel setting screen 6, the control unit 14 may be configured to set standard setting contents stored in the storage unit 15. The user can customize the setting contents based on the standard setting contents. Alternatively, a configuration may be adopted in which multiple setting content candidates are stored in the storage unit 15 so that the user can select the setting content they desire.

[0049] By the above processing and operation, the volume control area can be divided into a plurality of control areas, the width of each control area can be adjusted, and the rotation load and pulse frequency generated in the rotor 11 can be set in each area.

[0050] As described above, according to the operation device 1 and operation reception method of embodiment 1, when operating the volume of the music playback device 2 using the operation device 1 equipped with the rotating body 11, even if the operation is performed in the same volume operation area, the rotational load and vibration sensation applied to the rotating body 11 are changed depending on the operation direction, thereby improving the operability of the device and making it possible to safely receive volume change operations for the music playback device 2.

[0051] The operating device 1 may include a motor that assists the operation of the rotating body 11. For example, when the volume is in a dangerous area and the rotating body 11 rotates in a direction returning from the dangerous area to a non-danger area, the control unit 14 may drive the motor to assist the rotating body 11 in rotating toward the non-danger area.

[0052] (Embodiment 2) The operation device 1 in the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that it stores a different volume operation setting table 15a for each rotation direction of the rotating body 11. The other configurations of the operation device 1 are the same as those of the operation device 1 according to the first embodiment, and therefore the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0053] The storage unit 15 of the controller device 1 according to the second embodiment stores a first volume operation setting table for when the rotating body 11 rotates clockwise (first direction) and a second volume operation setting table for when the rotating body 11 rotates counterclockwise (second direction). Each volume operation table does not need information indicating whether or not the area is in a danger zone.

[0054] Fig. 9 is a graph showing the contents of the first volume operation setting table and the second volume operation setting table in embodiment 2. Fig. 9A is a graph showing the current value related to the fluid brake 12 when the rotating body 11 rotates clockwise, and represents the contents of the first volume operation setting table. FIG. 9B is a graph showing the current value related to the fluid brake 12 when the rotor 11 rotates counterclockwise, and represents the contents of the second volume operation setting table.

[0055] The first and second volume operation setting tables store information relating to different rotational loads so that the rotational load applied to the rotating body 11 in the dangerous region 4 varies depending on the direction of rotation. In particular, the current value in the dangerous region 4 is larger in the first volume operation setting table for clockwise rotation than in the second volume operation setting table for counterclockwise rotation. Also, the frequency in region 4 is larger in the first volume operation setting table than in the second volume operation setting table.

[0056] The first and second volume operation setting tables store information related to different rotational loads so that the rotational load applied to the rotor 11 in Region 1, which is a non-dangerous region, differs depending on the direction of rotation. For example, the current value in Region 1 is larger in the second volume operation setting table for counterclockwise rotation than in the first volume operation setting table for clockwise rotation. Furthermore, the frequency in Region 1 is larger in the second volume operation setting table than in the first volume operation setting table. In the example shown in FIG. 9A , the current value in Region 1 in the first volume operation setting table is zero. Region 1 is a region where the volume is very low, so there is usually no need to lower the volume to this level. When the volume moves from Region 2 to Region 1, a large rotational load and a pulse-like rotational load are applied to the rotor 11, thereby informing the user that the volume has been lowered too much. Furthermore, it is possible to make it difficult for the volume to be lowered any further.

[0057] According to the operation device 1 and operation reception method of the second embodiment, similarly to the first embodiment, the rotational load applied to the rotating body 11 is changed depending on the rotation direction of the rotating body 11, thereby improving the operability of the device and enabling the volume change operation of the music playback device 2 to be safely received.

[0058] Furthermore, even in the non-hazardous area, it is possible to improve the convenience of volume control of the music playback device 2 by applying different rotational loads depending on the rotation direction of the rotating body 11. For example, it is possible to prevent the volume from being lowered too much due to an erroneous operation.

[0059] (Embodiment 3) The operating device 1 in the third embodiment differs from the first and second embodiments in that it can make the user aware of the need to be careful when operating the volume by providing a clicking sensation when the volume enters a dangerous range. The other configurations of the operating device 1 are the same as those of the operating devices 1 according to the first and second embodiments, so the same reference numerals are used for the same parts and detailed descriptions are omitted.

[0060] 10 is a conceptual diagram showing a volume operation setting table 315a according to embodiment 3. The contents of the volume operation setting table 315a according to embodiment 3 are the same as those of embodiment 1, but further include information indicating a current value that generates a clicking sensation between the danger area and the non-danger area.

[0061] When the control unit 14 of the operating device 1 determines that the rotation direction of the rotating body 11 is clockwise (first direction) and that the volume has entered from the non-dangerous area 3 into the dangerous area 4, the control unit 14 passes a current that generates a clicking sensation through the fluid brake 12. Note that when the volume has entered from the dangerous area 4 into the non-dangerous area 3, the control unit 14 does not pass a current that generates a clicking sensation.

[0062] According to the operation device 1 and the operation reception method of the third embodiment, it is possible to notify the user that the volume has entered the danger zone by the clicking sensation of the rotating body 11.

[0063] (Embodiment 4) The operation device 1 of the fourth embodiment differs from the first to third embodiments in that when the volume reaches the upper or lower limit, a certain rotation load is applied to the rotating body 11, allowing the user to intuitively recognize that the volume is at the lower limit or above or below the volume operation range. The other configurations of the operation device 1 are the same as those of the operation device 1 according to the first embodiment, and therefore similar parts are given the same reference numerals and detailed description will be omitted.

[0064] 11 is a conceptual diagram showing a volume operation setting table 415a according to embodiment 4. The contents of volume operation setting table 415a according to embodiment 4 are the same as those of embodiment 1, but further include information indicating a current value that generates a clicking sensation between the danger area and the non-danger area, and a rotation load at the upper limit and the lower limit of the volume operation area.

[0065] When the upper limit of the volume operation range is reached and the rotating body 11 continues to rotate clockwise (first direction), the control unit 14 of the operating device 1 applies a rotational load to the rotating body 11 that gives the user a sense of the upper limit. The rotational load that gives the sense of the upper limit is a constant value without pulses, and is a load that is greater than the rotational load applied to the rotating body 11 in each operation range. Note that the control unit 14 may fix the rotating body 11 by applying the maximum rotational load to the rotating body 11. When the rotating body 11 rotates counterclockwise (second direction) in this state, the control unit 14 immediately reduces the volume from the maximum value in range 4.

[0066] Similarly, when the lower limit of the volume operation range is reached and the rotating body 11 further rotates counterclockwise (second direction), the control unit 14 of the operating device 1 applies a rotational load to the rotating body 11 that gives the user a sense of the lower limit. The rotational load that gives the sense of the lower limit is a constant value without pulses, and is a load greater than the rotational load applied to the rotating body 11 in each operation range. Note that the control unit 14 may fix the rotating body 11 by applying the maximum rotational load to the rotating body 11. When the rotating body 11 rotates clockwise (first direction) in this state, the control unit 14 immediately increases the volume from the minimum value of range 1. It should be noted that instead of fixing the rotor 11 by controlling the rotation load, it may be fixed by providing a motor or a physical stopper.

[0067] According to the operation device 1 and operation receiving method of the fourth embodiment, when the volume reaches the upper or lower limit, a certain large rotation load is applied to the rotating body 11, thereby giving a sense of the upper or lower limit.

[0068] (Embodiment 5) The operating device 1 in the fifth embodiment differs from the first to fourth embodiments in that the rotational load applied to the rotating body 11 is changed according to the displacement (angle) and rotation direction of the rotating body 11. Since the other configurations of the operating device 1 are the same as those of the operating devices 1 according to the first to fourth embodiments, the same reference numerals are used for the same parts and detailed description will be omitted.

[0069] FIG. 12 is a conceptual diagram showing volume operation setting tables 515a and 515b according to the fifth embodiment. FIG. 12A is volume operation setting table 515a showing the current value and frequency associated with fluid brake 12 when rotor 11 rotates clockwise. Clockwise rotation is the direction in which the volume increases. FIG. 12B is volume operation setting table 515b showing the current value and frequency associated with fluid brake 12 when rotor 11 rotates counterclockwise. Counterclockwise rotation is the direction in which the volume decreases. Volume operation setting tables 515a and 515b store information indicating the displacement (angle) of rotor 11, the current value, and the pulse frequency of the rotation load in association with each other. The displacement (angle) of rotor 11 in volume operation setting tables 515a and 515b is, for example, 0 to 360 degrees. In volume operation setting tables 515a and 515b, the range of 0 to 354 degrees for the displacement (angle) is a non-risk region, and the range of 355 to 360 degrees is a risk region. In the danger zone, even for the same angle, different current values ​​and frequencies are stored in volume operation setting tables 515a and 515b. The current value in volume operation setting table 515a for clockwise rotation is larger than that in volume operation setting table 515b for counterclockwise rotation. Also, the frequency in volume operation setting table 515a for clockwise rotation is larger than that in volume operation setting table 515b for counterclockwise rotation. For example, the frequency in the counterclockwise danger zone is zero, and the current value is also zero or a smaller value than the current values ​​in other rotation ranges.

[0070] It should be noted that the displacement in volume operation setting tables 515a and 515b is not particularly limited to a range of 0 to 360 degrees.

[0071] The controller 1 according to the fifth embodiment does not share volume information with the music player 2. The controller 14 applies a rotational load to the rotor 11 according to the rotation angle and rotation direction of the rotor 11 relative to a predetermined reference position. Specifically, the controller 14 detects the rotation angle and rotation direction of the rotor 11 using the rotation detector 13. The controller 14 identifies the volume operation setting table 515a or 515b, which corresponds to the detected rotation direction. The controller 14 then determines the current value and frequency by referring to the volume operation setting table 515a or 515b using the detected rotation angle as a key. The controller 14 controls the rotational load by passing a current based on the determined current value and frequency through the fluid brake 12. As in the first to fourth embodiments, when the frequency is zero, a constant rotational load of a magnitude corresponding to the current value is applied to the rotor 11. When the frequency is not zero, a pulse-like rotational load oscillating at the frequency, with the current value as the amplitude, is applied to the rotor 11. The controller 14 then transmits information indicating the rotation angle of the rotor 11 to the music player 2. The music playback device 2 receives the information on the rotation angle transmitted from the controller device 1, and outputs sound at a volume according to the information.

[0072] The fifth embodiment also provides the same effects as the first to fourth embodiments.

[0073] In each of the above embodiments, if the music being played contains a dangerous frequency component, the combination with the volume can be determined, and the load applied when rotating the rotor 11 of the control device 1 can be changed. For example, in the case of mosquito sounds, it has been reported that even if the sound is inaudible, turning up the volume too much can have adverse effects on health. If the music being played contains the frequency component of a mosquito sound, and the rotor 11 is rotated in a direction that increases the volume, the fluid brake 12 is controlled so that the rotor 11 rattles or becomes heavier when the volume exceeds a predetermined volume. The timing at which such control of the rotor 11 is initiated is determined based on the combination of the frequency component and the volume.

[0074] In the above embodiments, the current value and pulse frequency are used as parameters to change the load on the rotor 11, but the duty ratio of the pulse frequency may also be set.

[0075] In each of the above embodiments, when adjusting the volume of earphones with a noise-canceling function, a critical operation area can be set based on the detection results of a volume detection sensor (a sensor that detects external sound) included in the earphones. For example, the area where the volume of the reproduced sound heard by the ears becomes lower than the volume of the external sound is set as the critical operation area, and a load shown in area 4 in FIG. 4A is applied. This prevents the volume from dropping below the external sound even if the volume is suddenly lowered. Furthermore, since it would be dangerous to suddenly turn up the volume if the sound heard by the ears becomes drowned out by the external sound, fine adjustment of the volume of the reproduced sound is possible in such a situation.

[0076] Although the volume setting of the music playback device 2 has been described as an example of device operation using the operation device 1 (dial), the operation device 1 can also be used as an input device for industrial machinery, game devices, PCs, and other devices. For example, in the case of industrial machinery, there are important areas (corresponding to the dangerous areas of the music playback device 2) that require fine adjustment. The present invention is also effective for operations in such important areas.

[0077] The means for solving the problems of the present disclosure are described below. (Appendix 1) a rotating body for receiving an operation to change the setting value of the device; a detector for detecting the amount and direction of rotation of the rotating body; a brake that applies a rotational load to the rotating body; An operating device comprising: The brake A different rotational load is applied when the rotating body rotates in a first direction within a specific rotation range and when the rotating body rotates in a second direction within the rotation range. Operating device. (Appendix 2) the specific rotation range is an important operation range related to the operation of the device, The rotation range other than the specific rotation range is the normal operation range. 10. The operating device of claim 1. (Appendix 3) The first direction is a direction from the normal operation area to the important operation area, The rotation load when the rotating body rotates in the first direction through the specific rotation range is greater than the rotation load when the rotating body rotates in the second direction through the rotation range. 10. The operating device according to claim 2. (Appendix 4) The first direction is a direction from the normal operation area to the important operation area, The brake When the rotating body rotates in the first direction through the specific rotation range, a pulsed load is applied, and when the rotating body rotates in the second direction through the specific rotation range, a pulsed load having a lower frequency than the load or a load without pulses is applied. 10. The operating device according to claim 2 or 3. (Appendix 5) The brake When moving from the normal operation area to the important operation area, a load with a clicking sensation is applied to the rotating body. 5. The operating device according to any one of claims 2 to 4. (Appendix 6) A rate of change of the set value with respect to the amount of rotation of the rotating body when the rotating body rotates in the first direction through the specific rotation range is smaller than a rate of change of the set value with respect to the amount of rotation of the rotating body when the rotating body rotates in the second direction through the rotation range. 6. The operating device according to any one of claims 2 to 5. (Appendix 7) an acquisition unit that acquires the plurality of rotation ranges, the magnitude of the rotation load of the rotating body in each rotation range, and information indicating whether each rotation range is an important operation range; a storage unit that stores the acquired rotation range, the magnitude of the rotation load, and the information; 7. The operating device according to claim 2, further comprising: (Appendix 8) The brake It has a functional fluid whose viscosity changes by electrical control, A rotational load is applied to the rotating body by the functional fluid. 8. The operating device according to any one of claims 1 to 7. [Explanation of symbols]

[0078] 1: Operating device 2: Music playback device 11: Rotating body 12: Fluid brake 13: Rotation detector 14: Control section 15: Storage section 15a: Volume control setting table 20: External speaker 21:Display section 22:Operation section

Claims

1. a rotating body for receiving an operation to change the setting value of the device; a detector for detecting the amount and direction of rotation of the rotating body; a brake that applies a rotational load to the rotating body; An operating device comprising: The brake A different rotational load is applied when the rotating body rotates in a first direction within a specific rotation range and when the rotating body rotates in a second direction within the rotation range. Operating device.

2. the specific rotation range is an important operation range related to the operation of the device, The rotation range other than the specific rotation range is the normal operation range. The operating device according to claim 1 .

3. The first direction is a direction from the normal operation area to the important operation area, The rotation load when the rotating body rotates in the first direction through the specific rotation range is greater than the rotation load when the rotating body rotates in the second direction through the rotation range. The operating device according to claim 2 .

4. The first direction is a direction from the normal operation area to the important operation area, The brake When the rotating body rotates in the first direction through the specific rotation range, a pulsed load is applied, and when the rotating body rotates in the second direction through the specific rotation range, a pulsed load having a lower frequency than the load or a load without pulses is applied. The operating device according to claim 2 or 3.

5. The brake When moving from the normal operation area to the important operation area, a load with a clicking sensation is applied to the rotating body. The operating device according to claim 2 or 3.

6. A rate of change of a set value with respect to an amount of rotation of the rotating body when the rotating body rotates in the first direction through the specific rotation range is smaller than a rate of change of a set value with respect to an amount of rotation of the rotating body when the rotating body rotates in the second direction through the rotation range. The operating device according to claim 2 or 3.

7. an acquisition unit that acquires the plurality of rotation ranges, the magnitude of the rotation load of the rotating body in each rotation range, and information indicating whether each rotation range is an important operation range; a storage unit that stores the acquired rotation range, the magnitude of the rotation load, and the information; The operating device according to claim 2 or 3, comprising:

8. The brake It has a functional fluid whose viscosity changes under electrical control, A rotational load is applied to the rotating body by the functional fluid. The operating device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

9. 1. An operation reception method for receiving an operation to change a setting value of a device using an operation device having a rotating body, comprising: Detecting the rotation amount and rotation direction of the rotating body; A different rotational load is applied when the rotating body rotates in a first direction within a specific rotation range and when the rotating body rotates in a second direction within the rotation range. Operation acceptance method.

Images