Pen-type electronic device

Abstract

To provide pen-type electronic equipment capable of stabilizing the output of a pressure sensor.SOLUTION: The pen-type electronic device includes a cylindrical housing, a pen shaft housed inside the housing, and a pressing sensor wound around an outer surface of the pen shaft and housed inside the housing. The pressure sensor includes a piezoelectric element. A piezoelectric element is present at least at one of the tips of the pressure sensor in the winding direction. In at least a part of the tip where the piezoelectric element is present, a gap is present in the piezoelectric element or between the piezoelectric element and the housing.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a pen-type electronic device having a grip portion that is held by a user. [Background technology]

[0002] A known example of a conventional invention relating to a pen-type electronic device is the pen-type electronic device described in Patent Document 1. The pen-type electronic device described in Patent Document 1 includes a housing, a pen body, a pressure sensor, and a cushioning material. The housing is cylindrical and has a grip portion that is held by a user. The pen body is stored inside the housing. The pressure sensor is sheet-shaped and is wrapped around the outer surface of the pen body or the inner surface of the housing at a position that overlaps with the grip portion. The cushioning material is disposed between the pen body and the pressure sensor, or between the pressure sensor and the housing. The pressure sensor has a low sensitivity region in the central portion of the grip portion along the longitudinal axis of the pen body. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2024 / 58104 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Depending on how the pressure sensor is wrapped, the pressure sensor may float off the pen shaft when the user grips the case, which could cause the output of the pressure sensor to become unstable.

[0005] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a pen-type electronic device that can stabilize the output of a pressure sensor. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A pen-type electronic device according to one aspect of the present invention includes: A cylindrical housing; a pen holder at least a portion of which is housed inside the housing; a pressure sensor wrapped around the outer surface of the pen shaft and housed inside the housing; It is equipped with the pressure sensor includes a piezoelectric element, The piezoelectric element is located at at least one of the ends of the pressure sensor in the winding direction, In at least a part of the tip where the piezoelectric element is present, a gap exists within the piezoelectric element or between the piezoelectric element and the housing.

[0007] Depending on how the pressure sensor is wound, the output of the pressure sensor may become unstable. For example, if the pressure sensor is wound spirally around the pen barrel, the tip of the pressure sensor in the winding direction may float from the outer surface of the pen barrel. The portion of the piezoelectric element that floats from the pen barrel generates polarization with a different polarity than the other portions that do not float. According to this embodiment, at least a portion of the tip of the pressure sensor in the winding direction where the piezoelectric element is present has a gap within the piezoelectric element or between the piezoelectric element and the housing, making it difficult for deformation of the housing to be transmitted to the piezoelectric element at that tip. As a result, the pen-type electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention can suppress polarization with a different polarity and stabilize the output of the pressure sensor.

[0008] A pen-type electronic device according to one aspect of the present invention includes: A cylindrical housing; a pen base at least partially housed within the housing and having a flat surface; a pressure sensor wrapped around the outer surface of the pen shaft and housed inside the housing; It is equipped with the pressure sensor includes a piezoelectric element, the piezoelectric element is present between the flat surface and the housing, A gap exists within the piezoelectric element or between the piezoelectric element and the housing in at least a portion between the flat surface and the housing.

[0009] Depending on the configuration of the pen-type electronic device, the output of the pressure sensor may become unstable. For example, if the pen body has a flat surface, the pressure sensor may float on the flat surface. The portion of the piezoelectric element that floats from the pen body generates polarization with a polarity different from that of other portions that do not float. According to this embodiment, a gap exists between the flat surface and the housing, either within the piezoelectric element or between the piezoelectric element and the housing, making it difficult for deformation of the housing to be transmitted to the piezoelectric element between the flat surface and the housing. As a result, the pen-type electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention can suppress polarization with a polarity different from that of the pressure sensor and stabilize the output of the pressure sensor. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the present invention, the output of the pressure sensor can be stabilized. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a pen-type electronic device 1. As shown in FIG. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the pressure sensor 4 in a state where it is developed on a plane. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a side view of the pen-type electronic device 1. As shown in FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the pen-type electronic device 1 and the pressure sensor 4, with the first portion P1 and its vicinity enlarged. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the pen-type electronic device 1 and the pressure sensor 4, with the first end T1 and its vicinity enlarged. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of a pressure sensor 14 according to a comparative example. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the first end T1 according to the comparative example. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 shows the output of the pressure sensor 14 when the user grips the housing 8, in a case where the pressure sensor 14 is not floating above the outer surface OS2 of the pen body 2 at the first end T1. [Figure 9]FIG. 9 shows the output of the pressure sensor 14 when the user grips the housing 8 in a case where the pressure sensor 14 is floating above the outer surface OS2 of the pen body 2 at the first end T1. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of the pressure sensor 4 in a state where the first electrode 42 has a notch N and is developed on a plane. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of the pressure sensor 4 in a state where the first electrode 42 is not provided at the left end LT and is developed on a plane. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view of the pressure sensor 4a in a state where it is developed on a plane. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the pen-type electronic device 1a and the pressure sensor 4a, with the first end T1 and its vicinity enlarged. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is an exploded perspective view of the pressure sensor 4b in a state where it is developed on a plane. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the pen-type electronic device 1b and the pressure sensor 4b, with the first end T1 and its vicinity enlarged. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is an exploded perspective view of the pressure sensor 4c in a state where it is developed on a plane. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the pen-type electronic device 1c and the pressure sensor 4c, with the first end T1 and its vicinity enlarged. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the pen-type electronic device 1d and the pressure sensor 4c, with the first end T1 and its vicinity enlarged. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a cross-sectional view of the pen-type electronic device 1e and the pressure sensor 4c, with the first end T1 and its vicinity enlarged. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a cross-sectional view of the pen-type electronic device 1f and the pressure sensor 4c, with the vicinity of the first end T1 enlarged. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the pen holder 2g. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a front view of the pen-type electronic device 1g and the pressure sensor 4g. [Figure 23]FIG. 23 is an exploded perspective view of the pressure sensor 4g in a state where it is developed on a plane. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is an exploded perspective view of the pressure sensor 4g in a state where the first electrode 42g1 has a notch N and is developed on a plane. [Figure 25] FIG. 25 is an exploded perspective view of the pressure sensor 4g in a state where the pressure sensor 4g has a plurality of first electrodes 42g2 and is developed on a plane. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is an exploded perspective view of a pressure sensor 4h of a pen-type electronic device that combines the structures of the pen-type electronic devices 1a and 1g, when the pen-type electronic device is developed on a plane. [Figure 27] FIG. 27 is an exploded perspective view of a pressure sensor 4i of a pen-type electronic device that combines the structures of the pen-type electronic devices 1b and 1g, when the pen-type electronic device is developed on a plane. [Figure 28] FIG. 28 is an exploded perspective view of a pressure sensor 4j of a pen-type electronic device that combines the structures of the pen-type electronic devices 1c and 1g, when the pen-type electronic device is laid out flat. [Figure 29] FIG. 29 is a front view of a pen-type electronic device and a pressure sensor 4j that combines the structures of the pen-type electronic devices 1c and 1g. [Figure 30] FIG. 30 is a front view of a pen-type electronic device and a pressure sensor 4j that combines the structures of the pen-type electronic devices 1d and 1g. [Figure 31] FIG. 31 is a front view of a pen-type electronic device and a pressure sensor 4j that combines the structures of the pen-type electronic devices 1e and 1g. [Figure 32] FIG. 32 is a front view of a pen-type electronic device and a pressure sensor 4j that combines the structures of the pen-type electronic devices 1f and 1g. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] [First embodiment] A pen-type electronic device 1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of the pen-type electronic device 1. FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the pressure sensor 4 in a state where the device is laid out flat. FIG. 3 is a side view of the pen-type electronic device 1. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the pen-type electronic device 1 and the pressure sensor 4, with the vicinity of the first portion P1 enlarged. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view of the pen-type electronic device 1 and the pressure sensor 4, with the vicinity of the first end T1 enlarged.

[0013] As shown in FIG. 1 , the pen-type electronic device 1 includes a pen body 2, a first adhesive member 3, a pressure sensor 4, a second adhesive member 5, a cushion 6, a protective member 7, and a housing 8. The housing 8 is cylindrical and extends in a first direction DIR1. The pen body 2, the first adhesive member 3, the pressure sensor 4, the second adhesive member 5, the cushion 6, and the protective member 7 can be inserted into the housing 8. The first adhesive member 3, the pressure sensor 4, the second adhesive member 5, the cushion 6, and the protective member 7 are housed inside the housing 8. The housing 8 is made of a material such as resin or metal. The housing 8 is not limited to a cylindrical shape and may be any cylindrical shape. The second adhesive member 5, the cushion 6, and the protective member 7 correspond to the components according to the present invention. The first adhesive member 3, the second adhesive member 5, the cushion 6, and the protective member 7 are not essential components according to the present invention.

[0014] The pen body 2 extends in the first direction DIR1. In this embodiment, the pen body 2 has a cylindrical shape extending in the first direction DIR1. The pen body 2 has an outer surface OS2. One end of the pen body 2 in the first direction DIR1 has a tapered nib. The outer diameter of the pen body 2 is smaller than the inner diameter of the housing 8. At least a portion of the pen body 2 is housed inside the housing 8. In this embodiment, the portion of the pen body 2 other than the nib is housed inside the housing 8. The pen body 2 is made of a material such as resin or metal. The pen body 2 may have a cylindrical shape extending in the first direction DIR1. In this case, circuit components and the like may be housed inside the pen body 2. The pen body 2 is not limited to a cylindrical or columnar shape, but may also have a columnar or tubular shape such as an elliptical cylinder or elliptical cylinder, or a rectangular cylinder or rectangular cylinder. The pen body 2 and the nib may be separate components. In this case, for example, the entire pen holder 2 may be housed inside the housing 8.

[0015] The user holds the housing 8. The user holds the housing 8 and touches the pen tip to another electronic device (for example, a tablet computer). When the user moves the pen tip, the other electronic device senses this movement and accepts the user's operation input.

[0016] The pressure sensor 4 is flexible. The pressure sensor 4 is in the form of a flat film. The pressure sensor 4 is spirally wound along the outer surface OS2 of the pen body 2. The pressure sensor 4 is fixed to the outer surface OS2 of the pen body 2 by a first adhesive member 3 and a second adhesive member 5. The pressure sensor 4 may be wrapped around the entire outer surface OS2 of the pen body 2, for example. It is sufficient that the pressure sensor 4 is wrapped around the outer surface OS2 of the pen body 2.

[0017] 2, the pressure sensor 4 includes a piezoelectric element 40, a substrate 45, a coverlay 46, and a shielding member 47. Note that the substrate 45, the coverlay 46, and the shielding member 47 are not essential components of the present invention. The pressure sensor 4 in a state where it is laid out on a plane will be described below.

[0018] In the pressure sensor 4 in a state where it is unfolded on a plane, directions are defined as follows, as an example. As shown in FIG. 2, the direction in which the long side of the first main surface S1 extends is defined as the left-right direction. The direction in which the short side of the first main surface S1 extends is defined as the front-rear direction. The direction in which the piezoelectric film 41 and the base material 45 are aligned is defined as the up-down direction. The left-right direction, front-rear direction, and up-down direction are mutually orthogonal. However, the left-right direction, front-rear direction, and up-down direction in this specification are directions defined for the convenience of explanation. In each drawing, the left direction and the right direction may be interchanged, the front direction and the rear direction may be interchanged, and the up-down direction may be interchanged.

[0019] The pressure sensor 4 has upper and lower main surfaces aligned in the vertical direction. The pressure sensor 4 extends in the left-right direction. The pressure sensor 4 has a left end LT and a right end RT. A piezoelectric element 40 is present at the left end LT. No piezoelectric element 40 is present at the right end RT.

[0020] The piezoelectric element 40 has upper and lower principal surfaces aligned in the vertical direction. Each of the upper and lower principal surfaces of the piezoelectric element 40 is rectangular with two long sides extending in the left-right direction and two short sides extending in the front-rear direction. The piezoelectric element 40 has a piezoelectric film 41, a first electrode 42, a second electrode 43, and a hot melt 44. The hot melt 44 corresponds to the conductive adhesive member according to the present invention.

[0021] The piezoelectric film 41 has a first principal surface S1 and a second principal surface S2 that face each other. Each of the first principal surface S1 and the second principal surface S2 is rectangular, having two long sides extending in the left-right direction and two short sides extending in the front-rear direction. The shape of the piezoelectric film 41 is not limited to the shape shown in this embodiment.

[0022] The piezoelectric film 41 is polarized by deformation, generating a voltage between the first principal surface S1 and the second principal surface S2. The voltage generated between the first principal surface S1 and the second principal surface S2 depends on the amount of deformation of the piezoelectric film 41.

[0023] The piezoelectric film 41 is, for example, a film formed from a chiral polymer. The chiral polymer is, for example, polylactic acid (PLA), such as poly-L-lactic acid (PLLA) and poly-D-lactic acid (PDLA). The main chain of PLA has a helical structure. PLA has piezoelectricity due to the molecules being oriented by uniaxial stretching. The piezoelectric film 41 has a piezoelectric constant of d14.

[0024] The PLA is stretched at least in the orientation direction OD. In this embodiment, the orientation direction OD of the PLA forms an angle of 45 degrees with respect to each of the left-right direction and the front-back direction. Note that the 45 degrees may be within a range of approximately 45 degrees ±10 degrees. When the piezoelectric film 41 is stretched or compressed along the left-right direction, a voltage is generated between the first principal surface S1 and the second principal surface S2. The polarity of the voltage generated by stretching along the left-right direction is opposite to the polarity of the voltage generated by compression along the left-right direction. Similarly, when the piezoelectric film 41 is stretched or compressed along the front-back direction, a voltage is generated between the first principal surface S1 and the second principal surface S2. The polarity of the voltage generated by stretching along the front-back direction is opposite to the polarity of the voltage generated by compression along the front-back direction. Note that the angles formed by the orientation direction OD of the PLA with each of the left-right direction and the front-back direction are not limited to 45 degrees.

[0025] The first electrode 42 is conductive. The material of the first electrode 42 is, for example, copper. The lower main surface of the first electrode 42 is adhesive. The first electrode 42 is provided on the first main surface S1. The first electrode 42 covers the entire first main surface S1. The first electrode 42 is connected to a ground potential, and thereby functions as a reference electrode and a shield conductor. In this embodiment, the upper main surface of the first electrode 42 is the upper main surface of the pressure sensor 4.

[0026] At the left end LT, the first electrode 42 has a thin portion TW. The thickness (vertical length) of the thin portion TW is thinner than the thickness (vertical length) of the first electrode 42 other than the thin portion TW. As a result, a gap G exists between the first electrode 42 and the piezoelectric film 41 at the left end LT, and the first electrode 42 and the piezoelectric film 41 are not in contact with each other.

[0027] The second electrode 43 is conductive. The material of the second electrode 43 is, for example, copper. The second electrode 43 is fixed to the second main surface S2 with hot melt 44. The second electrode 43 covers the entire second main surface S2. The second electrode 43 functions as a signal electrode for outputting the voltage generated by the piezoelectric film 41. The shape of the second electrode 43 is not limited to the shape shown in this embodiment.

[0028] The hot melt 44 is provided on the second main surface S2. The hot melt 44 has adhesive properties. The hot melt 44 is solid at room temperature. When heated, the hot melt 44 melts and becomes liquid. The hot melt 44 fixes the piezoelectric film 41 to the upper main surface of the second electrode 43. The shape of the hot melt 44 is not limited to the shape shown in this embodiment. The hot melt 44 is not an essential component of the present invention. For example, if the second electrode 43 has adhesive properties, the piezoelectric element 40 may not have the hot melt 44. In this case, the second electrode 43 is provided on the second main surface S2.

[0029] The second electrode 43 may be provided on the first main surface S1, and the first electrode 42 may be provided on the second main surface S2. In this case, the upper main surface of the second electrode 43 is the upper main surface of the pressure sensor 4.

[0030] The substrate 45 has insulating properties. The material of the substrate 45 is, for example, polyimide. The substrate 45 has opposing upper and lower main surfaces. Each of the upper and lower main surfaces of the substrate 45 is rectangular, with two long sides extending in the left-right direction and two short sides extending in the front-rear direction. The substrate 45 has a portion located to the right of the piezoelectric element 40. As a result, the piezoelectric element 40 is not present at the right end RT of the pressure sensor 4. The shape of the substrate 45 is not limited to the shape shown in this embodiment. The members constituting the pressure sensor 4 may have different lengths in the left-right direction, as shown in FIG. 2.

[0031] The coverlay 46 has insulating properties. The coverlay 46 is provided on the lower main surface of the base material 45. The coverlay 46 covers at least a portion of the lower main surface of the base material 45. The coverlay 46 protects at least a portion of the lower main surface of the base material 45. The coverlay 46 has a portion located to the right of the piezoelectric element 40. Note that the shape of the coverlay 46 is not limited to the shape shown in this embodiment.

[0032] The shielding member 47 is conductive. The shielding member 47 is provided on the lower main surface of the substrate 45 and the lower main surface of the coverlay 46. The shielding member 47 covers the entire lower main surface of the substrate 45. The shielding member 47 has a portion located to the right of the piezoelectric element 40. The shielding member 47 functions as a shielding conductor by being connected to a ground potential. In this embodiment, the lower main surface of the shielding member 47 is the lower main surface of the pressure sensor 4. The shape of the shielding member 47 is not limited to the shape shown in this embodiment.

[0033] Note that the piezoelectric element 40 may be present not only at the left end LT but also at the right end RT. In this case, the substrate 45, the coverlay 46, and the shielding member 47 do not have a portion located to the right of the piezoelectric element 40. Also, the piezoelectric element 40 may be present at the right end RT, but not at the left end LT. In this case, the substrate 45, the coverlay 46, and the shielding member 47 have a portion located to the left of the piezoelectric element 40, but do not have a portion located to the right of the piezoelectric element 40.

[0034] 1 , the left end LT and the right end RT correspond to a first end T1, which is one end of the leading edge of the pressure sensor 4 in the winding direction, and a second end T2, which is the other end of the leading edge of the pressure sensor 4 in the winding direction, respectively, when the pressure sensor 4 is wound around the outer surface OS2 of the pen body 2. The first end T1, which is one end of the leading edge of the pressure sensor 4 in the winding direction, and the second end T2, which is the other end of the leading edge of the pressure sensor 4 in the winding direction, respectively, are the winding start position and the winding end position of the pressure sensor 4. In this embodiment, the piezoelectric element 40 is present at the left end LT, and therefore the piezoelectric element 40 is present at the first end T1. The upper and lower principal surfaces of the pressure sensor 4 correspond to the outer and inner surfaces of the pressure sensor 4, respectively, when the pressure sensor 4 is wound around the outer surface OS2 of the pen body 2.

[0035] As described above, when a piezoelectric element 40 is also present at the right end RT, a piezoelectric element 40 is also present at the second end T2. When a piezoelectric element 40 is present at the right end RT and not at the left end LT, a piezoelectric element 40 is present at the second end T2 and not at the first end T1. That is, the piezoelectric element 40 may be present at at least one of the ends (the first end T1 and the second end T2) in the winding direction of the pressure sensor 4. Note that "the piezoelectric element 40 is present at the end in the winding direction of the pressure sensor 4" may mean that all of the piezoelectric film 41, the first electrode 42, the second electrode 43, and the hot melt 44 are present at the end in the winding direction of the pressure sensor 4. Furthermore, it is sufficient that any of the components constituting the piezoelectric element 40 is present at the end in the winding direction of the pressure sensor 4, and some of the components constituting the piezoelectric element 40 do not need to be present at the end in the winding direction of the pressure sensor 4. For example, as will be described later, only the first electrode 42 does not need to be disposed at the end in the winding direction of the pressure sensor 4.

[0036] 1 and 3, in this embodiment, a part of the pressure sensor 4 that passes through the first end T1 and is located on a line parallel to the first direction DIR1 is defined as the first part P1. Note that the first part P1 may be any part of the pressure sensor 4 other than the tip end in the winding direction of the pressure sensor 4 where the piezoelectric element 40 is present (in this embodiment, near the first end T1).

[0037] The first adhesive member 3 is disposed between the pen body 2 and the pressure sensor 4. The first adhesive member 3 is flexible. The first adhesive member 3 is in the form of a flat film. The first adhesive member 3 is spirally wrapped around the outer surface OS2 of the pen body 2. As a result, the first adhesive member 3 covers the entire inner surface of the pressure sensor 4. The first adhesive member 3 is, for example, double-sided tape. The first adhesive member 3 fixes the pressure sensor 4 to the outer surface OS2 of the pen body 2. Note that the first adhesive member 3 may also be wrapped around the entire outer surface OS2 of the pen body 2, for example.

[0038] The second adhesive member 5 is disposed between the pressure sensor 4 and the housing 8. The second adhesive member 5 is flexible. The second adhesive member 5 is in the form of a flat film. The second adhesive member 5 is wrapped around the outer surface OS2 of the pen body 2. As a result, the second adhesive member 5 covers the entire outer surface of the pressure sensor 4. In this embodiment, the second adhesive member 5 is in the form of a cylinder extending in the first direction DIR1. The second adhesive member 5 is located between the pressure sensor 4 and the cushion 6. The second adhesive member 5 is, for example, double-sided tape. The second adhesive member 5 fixes the pressure sensor 4 to the outer surface OS2 of the pen body 2, and fixes the cushion 6 to the outer surface of the pressure sensor 4. Note that the second adhesive member 5 is not limited to a cylindrical shape and may be, for example, wrapped spirally around the outer surface of the pressure sensor 4.

[0039] As described above, in this embodiment, the first adhesive member 3 and the second adhesive member 5 each fix the entire pressure sensor 4 to the outer surface OS2 of the pen body 2. However, the first adhesive member 3 and the second adhesive member 5 may each fix the pressure sensor 4 to the outer surface OS2 of the pen body 2 at least a part of the tip (first end T1 in this embodiment) in the winding direction of the pressure sensor 4 where the piezoelectric element 40 is present.

[0040] The cushion 6 is disposed between the pressure sensor 4 and the housing 8. The cushion 6 has contractibility. The cushion 6 is made of, for example, resin. The cushion 6 is wrapped around the outer surface OS2 of the pen body 2. As a result, the cushion 6 covers the entire outer surface of the pressure sensor 4. In this embodiment, the cushion 6 has a cylindrical shape extending in the first direction DIR1. The cushion 6 is located between the second adhesive member 5 and the protective member 7. Note that the cushion 6 is not limited to a cylindrical shape, and may be wrapped spirally around the outer surface of the pressure sensor 4, for example.

[0041] The protective member 7 is disposed between the pressure sensor 4 and the housing 8. The protective member 7 is flexible. The material of the protective member 7 is, for example, polyethylene. The protective member 7 is wrapped around the outer surface OS2 of the pen body 2. As a result, the protective member 7 covers the entire outer surface of the pressure sensor 4. In this embodiment, the protective member 7 is cylindrical and extends in the first direction DIR1. The protective member 7 is located between the cushion 6 and the housing 8. The protective member 7 protects the pressure sensor 4 to prevent excessive load from being applied to the pressure sensor 4. When a user grips the housing 8, deformation of the housing 8 is transmitted to the piezoelectric element 40 via the cushion 6 and the protective member 7. Note that the protective member 7 is not limited to a cylindrical shape and may be, for example, wrapped spirally around the outer surface of the pressure sensor 4.

[0042] 3, in this embodiment, a gap GA exists between the protective member 7 and the housing 8. Note that the gap GA does not necessarily have to exist between the protective member 7 and the housing 8.

[0043] As shown in Fig. 4, there is no gap G near the first portion P1, whereas as shown in Fig. 5, there is a gap G near the first end T1. More specifically, as described above, the first electrode 42 has a thin portion TW at the left end LT. As a result, in this embodiment, there is a gap G within the piezoelectric element 40 (between the first electrode 42 and the piezoelectric film 41) over the entire first end T1. As a result, there is no contact between the first electrode 42 and the piezoelectric film 41 over the entire first end T1.

[0044] Fig. 6 is an exploded perspective view of a pressure sensor 14 according to a comparative example. Fig. 7 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the vicinity of the first end T1 according to the comparative example. The pen-type electronic device 10 according to the comparative example differs from the pen-type electronic device 1 in that it includes a pressure sensor 14 instead of the pressure sensor 4. Furthermore, the pen-type electronic device 10 according to the comparative example does not include the first adhesive member 3 and the second adhesive member 5.

[0045] 6, the pressure sensor 14 includes a piezoelectric element 400 instead of the piezoelectric element 40. The piezoelectric element 400 has a first electrode 420 instead of the first electrode 42. At the left end LT, the first electrode 420 does not have a thin portion TW. As a result, the first electrode 420 and the piezoelectric film 41 are in contact with each other at the left end LT.

[0046] 7, the piezoelectric element 400 is present at the first end T1. Over the entire first end T1, there is no gap G within the piezoelectric element 400 or between the piezoelectric element 400 and the housing 8. Over the entire first end T1, the first electrode 420 and the piezoelectric film 41 are in contact with each other.

[0047] Depending on how the pressure sensor 14 is wound, as shown in Fig. 7, the tip of the pressure sensor 14 in the winding direction (first end T1 in this comparative example) may float (be separated) from the outer surface OS2 of the pen body 2. The first end T1 is more likely to float from the outer surface OS2 of the pen body 2 than other parts. The part of the pressure sensor 14 that floats from the outer surface OS2 of the pen body 2 generates polarization with a different polarity than the other parts that do not float.

[0048] Figure 8 shows the output of the pressure sensor 14 when the user grips the housing 8 at the first end T1, when the pressure sensor 14 is not floating above the outer surface OS2 of the pen body 2 (the pressure sensor 14 is in contact with the outer surface OS2 of the pen body 2). The horizontal axis in Figure 8 represents time. The vertical axis in Figure 8 represents the output of the pressure sensor 14. The user gripped the housing 8 during period TI1 and released it during period TI2. The user also gripped the housing 8 during period TI3 ​​and released it during period TI4.

[0049] 8, when the housing 8 is gripped (periods TI1 and TI3), the output of the pressure sensor 14 decreases. When the housing 8 is released (periods TI2 and TI4), the output of the pressure sensor 14 increases. Therefore, based on the increase or decrease in the output of the pressure sensor 14, it can be easily determined whether the user is gripping or releasing the housing 8.

[0050] FIG. 9 shows the output of the pressure sensor 14 when the user grips the housing 8, in a case where the pressure sensor 14 is floating above the outer surface OS2 of the pen body 2 at the first end T1. The horizontal axis in FIG. 9 represents time. The vertical axis in FIG. 9 represents the output of the pressure sensor 14. The user gripped the housing 8 in period TI1 and released it in period TI2. The user also gripped the housing 8 in period TI3 ​​and released it in period TI4.

[0051] The portion of the piezoelectric element 400 that is lifted from the pen body 2 generates polarization with a polarity different from that of the other portions that are not lifted. As a result, as shown in FIG. 9 , when the housing 8 is gripped (periods TI1 and TI3), the output of the pressure sensor 14 increases or decreases. Similarly, when the housing 8 is released (periods TI2 and TI4), the output of the pressure sensor 14 increases or decreases. When the piezoelectric element 400 is located at the tip of the pressure sensor 14 in the winding direction (first end T1 in this comparative example), if the first end T1 lifts from the outer surface OS2 of the pen body 2, the output of the pressure sensor 14 becomes unstable when the user grips the housing 8. Therefore, when the pressure sensor 14 lifts from the outer surface OS2 of the pen body 2, the output of the pressure sensor 14 becomes unstable, making it difficult to determine whether the user has gripped or released the housing 8 based on the increase or decrease in the output of the pressure sensor 14.

[0052] In the pen-type electronic device 1, the first adhesive member 3 fixes the pressure sensor 4 to the outer surface OS2 of the pen barrel 2 at least a portion of the tip (first end T1 in this embodiment) in the winding direction of the pressure sensor 4 where the piezoelectric element 40 is located. This prevents at least a portion of the first end T1 from floating above the outer surface OS2 of the pen barrel 2. This prevents polarization of opposite polarities and stabilizes the output of the pressure sensor 4. Note that in the pen-type electronic device 1, not only the first adhesive member 3 but also the second adhesive member 5 fixes the pressure sensor 4 to the outer surface OS2 of the pen barrel 2 at least a portion of the first end T1. This, like the first adhesive member 3, prevents polarization of opposite polarities and stabilizes the output of the pressure sensor 4.

[0053] Furthermore, in the pen-type electronic device 1, a gap G exists within the piezoelectric element 40 (between the first electrode 42 and the piezoelectric film 41) in at least a part of the tip (first end T1 in this embodiment) in the winding direction of the pressure sensor 4 where the piezoelectric element 40 exists. This makes it difficult for deformation of the housing 8 to be transmitted to the piezoelectric element 40 at the first end T1. Therefore, according to the pen-type electronic device 1, polarization with different polarities can be suppressed, and the output of the pressure sensor 4 can be stabilized.

[0054] Furthermore, in the pen-type electronic device 1, the first electrode 42 and the piezoelectric film 41 are not in contact with each other at the tip (first end T1 in this embodiment) in the winding direction of the pressure sensor 4 where the piezoelectric element 40 is present. This makes it difficult for deformation of the housing 8 to be transmitted to the piezoelectric film 41 at the first end T1. Therefore, the pen-type electronic device 1 can suppress polarization with different polarities and stabilize the output of the pressure sensor 4.

[0055] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of the pressure sensor 4 in a flat, unfolded state when the first electrode 42 has a notch N. As shown in FIG. 10, the first electrode 42 may have a notch N at the left end LT. As a result, the first electrode 42 is not provided at a portion of the left end LT, and the first electrode 42 and the piezoelectric film 41 do not come into contact with each other. As a result, the first electrode 42 is not provided at a portion of the tip (first end T1 in this embodiment) in the winding direction of the pressure sensor 4 where the piezoelectric element 40 is present, and a gap G exists between the piezoelectric element 40 and the housing 8 (between the piezoelectric film 41 and the second adhesive member 5). As a result, the first electrode 42 and the piezoelectric film 41 do not come into contact with each other at a portion of the first end T1. Even in this case, deformation of the housing 8 is less likely to be transmitted to the piezoelectric element 40 at the first end T1. This suppresses polarization of opposite polarities, and stabilizes the output of the pressure sensor 4.

[0056] FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view of the pressure sensor 4 in a flat, unfolded state when the first electrode 42 is not provided at the left end LT. As shown in FIG. 11, the first electrode 42 does not have to be provided at the left end LT. This prevents the first electrode 42 from contacting the piezoelectric film 41 at the left end LT. As a result, the first electrode 42 is not provided over the entire tip (first end T1 in this embodiment) in the winding direction of the pressure sensor 4 where the piezoelectric element 40 is present. This results in a gap G between the piezoelectric element 40 and the housing 8 (between the piezoelectric film 41 and the second adhesive member 5). This prevents the first electrode 42 from contacting the piezoelectric film 41 over the entire first end T1. Even in this case, deformation of the housing 8 is less likely to be transmitted to the piezoelectric element 40 at the first end T1. This suppresses polarization of opposite polarities, stabilizing the output of the pressure sensor 4.

[0057] [First Modification] A pen-type electronic device 1a according to a first modified example of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Fig. 12 is an exploded perspective view of the pressure sensor 4a in a state where it is unfolded on a plane. Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the pen-type electronic device 1a and the pressure sensor 4a, with the vicinity of the first end T1 enlarged. Note that for the pen-type electronic device 1a, only the parts that are different from the pen-type electronic device 1 will be described, and the rest will be omitted.

[0058] The pen-type electronic device 1a differs from the pen-type electronic device 1 in that it includes a pressure sensor 4a instead of the pressure sensor 4. As shown in Fig. 12, the pressure sensor 4a includes a piezoelectric element 40a instead of the piezoelectric element 40. The piezoelectric element 40a has a piezoelectric film 41a and a first electrode 42a instead of the piezoelectric film 41 and the first electrode 42.

[0059] At the left end LT, the first electrode 42a does not have a thin portion TW. On the other hand, the piezoelectric film 41a is not provided at the left end LT. As a result, the first electrode 42a and the piezoelectric film 41a are not in contact with each other at the left end LT. As a result, as shown in FIG. 13, the piezoelectric film 41a is not provided over the entire first end T1, and therefore a gap G exists within the piezoelectric element 40a (between the first electrode 42a and the hot melt 44 in this modification). As a result, the first electrode 42a and the piezoelectric film 41a are not in contact with each other over the entire first end T1.

[0060] In the pen-type electronic device 1a, the piezoelectric film 41a does not generate a voltage at the tip of the pressure sensor 4a in the winding direction where the piezoelectric element 40a is present (the first end T1 in this modification). Therefore, polarization of opposite polarities is suppressed, and the output of the pressure sensor 4a can be stabilized. At the left end LT, the piezoelectric film 41a may have a notch N. This prevents the piezoelectric film 41a from being provided at a portion of the left end LT, and the first electrode 42a and the piezoelectric film 41a do not contact each other. As a result, the absence of the piezoelectric film 41a at a portion of the first end T1 creates a gap G within the piezoelectric element 40a (between the first electrode 42a and the hot melt 44). This prevents the first electrode 42a and the piezoelectric film 41a from contacting each other at a portion of the first end T1. Even in this case, the piezoelectric film 41a is less likely to generate a voltage at the first end T1. Therefore, polarization of opposite polarities is suppressed, and the output of the pressure sensor 4a can be stabilized.

[0061] [Second Modification] A pen-type electronic device 1b according to a second modified example of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Fig. 14 is an exploded perspective view of the pressure sensor 4b in a state where it is unfolded on a plane. Fig. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the pen-type electronic device 1b and the pressure sensor 4b, with the vicinity of the first end T1 enlarged. Note that with regard to the pen-type electronic device 1b, only the parts that are different from the pen-type electronic device 1 will be described, and the rest will be omitted.

[0062] The pen-type electronic device 1b differs from the pen-type electronic device 1 in that it includes a pressure sensor 4b instead of the pressure sensor 4. As shown in Fig. 14, the pressure sensor 4b includes a piezoelectric element 40b instead of the piezoelectric element 40. The piezoelectric element 40b has a first electrode 42a and a second electrode 43b instead of the first electrode 42 and the second electrode 43.

[0063] At the left end LT, the first electrode 42a does not have a thin portion TW. On the other hand, at the left end LT, the second electrode 43b has a thin portion TW. The thickness (vertical length) of the thin portion TW is thinner than the thickness (vertical length) of the second electrode 43b other than the thin portion TW. As a result, the hot melt 44 and the second electrode 43b are not in contact with each other at the left end LT. As a result, as shown in FIG. 15, the second electrode 43b has the thin portion TW over the entire first end T1, and thus a gap G exists within the piezoelectric element 40b (between the hot melt 44 and the second electrode 43b in this modification). As a result, the hot melt 44 and the second electrode 43b are not in contact with each other over the entire first end T1.

[0064] In the pen-type electronic device 1b, deformation of the housing 8 is less likely to be transmitted to the piezoelectric element 40b at the tip of the pressure sensor 4b in the winding direction where the piezoelectric element 40b is present (the first end T1 in this modification). This suppresses polarization of opposite polarities, stabilizing the output of the pressure sensor 4b. At the left end LT, the second electrode 43b may have a notch N. This prevents the second electrode 43b from being provided at a portion of the left end LT, preventing contact between the hot melt 44 and the second electrode 43b. As a result, a gap G exists within the piezoelectric element 40b (between the hot melt 44 and the substrate 45) due to the absence of the second electrode 43b at a portion of the first end T1. This prevents contact between the hot melt 44 and the second electrode 43b at a portion of the first end T1. Even in this case, deformation of the housing 8 is less likely to be transmitted to the piezoelectric element 40b at the first end T1. Therefore, polarization of different polarities can be suppressed, and the output of the pressure sensor 4b can be stabilized.

[0065] The second electrode 43b does not necessarily have to be provided at the left end LT. This prevents the hot melt 44 and the second electrode 43b from coming into contact with each other at the left end LT. As a result, the second electrode 43b is not provided over the entire first end T1, and a gap G exists within the piezoelectric element 40b (between the hot melt 44 and the substrate 45). This prevents the hot melt 44 and the second electrode 43b from coming into contact with each other over the entire first end T1. Even in this case, deformation of the housing 8 is less likely to be transmitted to the piezoelectric element 40b at the first end T1. This suppresses polarization of opposite polarities, stabilizing the output of the pressure sensor 4b.

[0066] [Third Modification] A pen-type electronic device 1c according to a third modified example of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Fig. 16 is an exploded perspective view of the pressure sensor 4c in a state where it is unfolded on a plane. Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view of the pen-type electronic device 1c and the pressure sensor 4c, with the vicinity of the first end T1 enlarged. Note that with regard to the pen-type electronic device 1c, only the parts that are different from the pen-type electronic device 1 will be described, and the rest will be omitted.

[0067] The pen-type electronic device 1c differs from the pen-type electronic device 1 in that it includes a pressure sensor 4c and a second adhesive member 5c instead of the pressure sensor 4 and the second adhesive member 5. As shown in Fig. 16, the pressure sensor 4c includes a piezoelectric element 40c instead of the piezoelectric element 40. The piezoelectric element 40c has a first electrode 42a instead of the first electrode 42.

[0068] At the left end LT, the first electrode 42a does not have the thin portion TW. At the left end LT, there is no gap G within the piezoelectric element 40c.

[0069] 17, the second adhesive member 5c is not provided at the first end T1. Since the second adhesive member 5c is not provided over the entire first end T1, a gap G exists between the piezoelectric element 40c and the housing 8 (between the first electrode 42a and the cushion 6 in this modification). As a result, the piezoelectric element 40c and the second adhesive member 5c are not in contact over the entire first end T1.

[0070] In the pen-type electronic device 1c, deformation of the housing 8 is less likely to be transmitted to the piezoelectric element 40c at the tip of the pressure sensor 4c in the winding direction where the piezoelectric element 40c is present (the first end T1 in this modification). This suppresses polarization of opposite polarities, stabilizing the output of the pressure sensor 4c. Note that the second adhesive member 5c may have a notch N at the first end T1. This prevents the second adhesive member 5c from being provided at a portion of the first end T1, preventing contact between the piezoelectric element 40c and the second adhesive member 5c. As a result, a gap G exists between the piezoelectric element 40c and the housing 8 (between the first electrode 42a and the cushion 6) because the second adhesive member 5c is not provided at a portion of the first end T1. This prevents contact between the piezoelectric element 40c and the second adhesive member 5c at a portion of the first end T1. Even in this case, deformation of the housing 8 is less likely to be transmitted to the piezoelectric element 40c at the first end T1. Therefore, polarization of different polarities can be suppressed, and the output of the pressure sensor 4c can be stabilized.

[0071] [Fourth Variation] A pen-type electronic device 1d according to a fourth modified example of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Fig. 18 is a cross-sectional view of the pen-type electronic device 1d and the pressure sensor 4c, with the first end T1 and its vicinity enlarged. Note that only the parts of the pen-type electronic device 1d that are different from the pen-type electronic device 1c will be described, and the rest will be omitted.

[0072] The pen-type electronic device 1d differs from the pen-type electronic device 1c in that it includes a second adhesive member 5 and a cushion 6d instead of the second adhesive member 5c and the cushion 6.

[0073] 18, a second adhesive member 5 is provided at the first end T1. On the other hand, a cushion 6d is not provided at the first end T1. Since the cushion 6d is not provided over the entire first end T1, a gap G exists between the piezoelectric element 40c and the housing 8 (in this modification, between the second adhesive member 5 and the protective member 7).

[0074] In the pen-type electronic device 1d, too, deformation of the housing 8 is less likely to be transmitted to the piezoelectric element 40c at the tip (first end T1 in this modification) of the pressure sensor 4c in the winding direction where the piezoelectric element 40c is present. This suppresses polarization of opposite polarities, and stabilizes the output of the pressure sensor 4c. Note that, at the first end T1, the cushion 6d may have a notch N. This prevents the cushion 6d from being provided at a portion of the first end T1. As a result, the absence of the cushion 6d at a portion of the first end T1 results in a gap G between the piezoelectric element 40c and the housing 8 (between the second adhesive member 5 and the protective member 7). Even in this case, deformation of the housing 8 is less likely to be transmitted to the piezoelectric element 40c at the first end T1. This suppresses polarization of opposite polarities, and stabilizes the output of the pressure sensor 4c.

[0075] [Fifth Variation] A pen-type electronic device 1e according to a fifth modified example of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Fig. 19 is a cross-sectional view of the pen-type electronic device 1e and the pressure sensor 4c, with the first end T1 and its vicinity enlarged. Note that only the parts of the pen-type electronic device 1e that are different from the pen-type electronic device 1c will be described, and the rest will be omitted.

[0076] The pen-type electronic device 1e differs from the pen-type electronic device 1c in that it includes a second adhesive member 5 and a protective member 7e instead of the second adhesive member 5c and the protective member 7.

[0077] 19, a second adhesive member 5 is provided at the first end T1. On the other hand, a protective member 7e is not provided at the first end T1. Since the protective member 7e is not provided over the entire first end T1, a gap G exists between the piezoelectric element 40c and the housing 8 (in this modification, between the cushion 6 and the housing 8).

[0078] In the pen-type electronic device 1e, too, deformation of the housing 8 is less likely to be transmitted to the piezoelectric element 40c at the tip (first end T1 in this modification) of the pressure sensor 4c in the winding direction where the piezoelectric element 40c is present. This suppresses polarization of opposite polarities, and stabilizes the output of the pressure sensor 4c. Note that, at the first end T1, the protective member 7e may have a notch N. This prevents the protective member 7e from being provided at a portion of the first end T1. As a result, the absence of the protective member 7e at a portion of the first end T1 creates a gap G between the piezoelectric element 40c and the housing 8 (between the cushion 6 and the housing 8). Even in this case, deformation of the housing 8 is less likely to be transmitted to the piezoelectric element 40c at the first end T1. This suppresses polarization of opposite polarities, and stabilizes the output of the pressure sensor 4c.

[0079] [Sixth Modification] A pen-type electronic device 1f according to a sixth modified example of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Fig. 20 is a cross-sectional view of the pen-type electronic device 1f and the pressure sensor 4c, with the first end T1 and the vicinity thereof enlarged. Note that only the parts of the pen-type electronic device 1f that are different from the pen-type electronic device 1c will be described, and the rest will be omitted.

[0080] The pen-type electronic device 1f differs from the pen-type electronic device 1c in that it includes a second adhesive member 5 and a housing 8f instead of the second adhesive member 5c and the housing 8.

[0081] As shown in FIG. 20, a second adhesive member 5 is provided at the first end T1. Meanwhile, at the first end T1, the housing 8f has a thin portion TW. The thickness of the thin portion TW is thinner than the thickness of the housing 8f other than the thin portion TW. Because the housing 8f has the thin portion TW throughout the first end T1, a gap G exists between the piezoelectric element 40c and the housing 8f (in this modification, between the protective member 7 and the housing 8f). The distance between the protective member 7 and the housing 8f at the first end T1 is longer than the distance between the protective member 7 and the housing 8f at positions other than the first end T1.

[0082] In the pen-type electronic device 1f, too, the deformation of the housing 8f is less likely to be transmitted to the piezoelectric element 40c at the tip (first end T1 in this modification) in the winding direction of the pressure sensor 4c where the piezoelectric element 40c is present. Therefore, polarization of opposite polarity is suppressed, and the output of the pressure sensor 4c can be stabilized. Note that, in part of the first end T1, the housing 8f may have a thin portion TW, so that a gap G may exist between the piezoelectric element 40c and the housing 8f (between the protective member 7 and the housing 8f). In this case, too, the deformation of the housing 8f is less likely to be transmitted to the piezoelectric element 40c at the first end T1. Therefore, polarization of opposite polarity is suppressed, and the output of the pressure sensor 4c can be stabilized.

[0083] [Second embodiment] A pen-type electronic device 1g according to a second embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. Fig. 21 is a perspective view of a pen holder 2g. Fig. 22 is a front view of the pen-type electronic device 1g and a pressure sensor 4g. Fig. 23 is an exploded perspective view of the pressure sensor 4g in a state where it is unfolded on a plane. Note that with regard to the pen-type electronic device 1g, only the parts that differ from the pen-type electronic device 1 will be described, and the rest will be omitted.

[0084] The pen-type electronic device 1g differs from the pen-type electronic device 1 in that, instead of the pen holder 2 and the pressure sensor 4, the pen holder 2g and the pressure sensor 4g are provided.

[0085] As shown in Fig. 21, the pen holder 2g has a flat surface FS. As shown in Fig. 22, in this embodiment, the cross section of the pen holder 2g perpendicular to the first direction DIR1 is a partially cut circle, with a portion of a circle missing. Note that the cross section of the pen holder 2g perpendicular to the first direction DIR1 may also be a partially cut ellipse, with a portion of an ellipse missing.

[0086] As shown in FIG. 23, the pressure sensor 4g includes a piezoelectric element 40g instead of the piezoelectric element 40. The piezoelectric element 40g has a first electrode 42g1 instead of the first electrode 42. The first electrode 42g1 has a plurality of thin portions TW. The thickness (vertical length) of the thin portions TW is thinner than the thickness (vertical length) of the first electrode 42g1 other than the thin portions TW. As a result, a gap G exists between the thin portions TW and the piezoelectric film 41, and the thin portions TW and the piezoelectric film 41 are not in contact with each other. Note that if the number of turns of the pressure sensor 4g is less than two, the number of thin portions TW may be one.

[0087] 22, the piezoelectric element 40g is present between the flat surface FS and the housing 8. More specifically, the piezoelectric element 40g is present between the flat surface FS and the housing 8 in the second direction DIR2 which is the normal direction of the flat surface FS.

[0088] The first adhesive member 3 and the second adhesive member 5 fix the pressure sensor 4g to the outer surface OS2 of the pen holder 2g. The first adhesive member 3 and the second adhesive member 5 may each fix the pressure sensor 4g to the flat surface FS.

[0089] As described above, the first electrode 42g1 has a plurality of thin portions TW. The plurality of thin portions TW are located between the flat surface FS and the housing 8. As a result, in this embodiment, a gap G exists within the piezoelectric element 40g (between the first electrode 42g1 and the piezoelectric film 41) in a portion between the flat surface FS and the housing 8. As a result, the first electrode 42g1 and the piezoelectric film 41 are not in contact with each other in a portion between the flat surface FS and the housing 8.

[0090] When the pressure sensor 4g is wrapped around the entire outer surface OS2 of the pen holder 2g, a gap G may exist within the piezoelectric element 40g (between the first electrode 42g1 and the piezoelectric film 41) over the entire area between the flat surface FS and the housing 8. As a result, the first electrode 42g1 and the piezoelectric film 41 may not be in contact over the entire area between the flat surface FS and the housing 8.

[0091] The pen-type electronic device 1g can stabilize the output of the pressure sensor 4g. More specifically, when the pen body has a flat surface, not only the tip of the pressure sensor in the winding direction may float from the outer surface of the pen body, but also the pressure sensor may float from the flat surface of the pen body.

[0092] In the pen-shaped electronic device 1g, the first adhesive member 3 fixes the pressure sensor 4g to the flat surface FS. This prevents the pressure sensor 4g from floating above the flat surface FS. This prevents polarization with different polarities, stabilizing the output of the pressure sensor 4g. Note that in the pen-shaped electronic device 1, not only the first adhesive member 3 but also the second adhesive member 5 fixes the pressure sensor 4g to the flat surface FS. This prevents polarization with different polarities, similar to the first adhesive member 3, and stabilizes the output of the pressure sensor 4g.

[0093] Furthermore, in the pen-type electronic device 1g, a gap G exists within the piezoelectric element 40g (between the first electrode 42g1 and the piezoelectric film 41) in at least a portion between the flat surface FS and the housing 8. This makes it difficult for deformation of the housing 8 to be transmitted to the piezoelectric element 40g between the flat surface FS and the housing 8. Therefore, the pen-type electronic device 1g can suppress polarization with different polarities and stabilize the output of the pressure sensor 4g.

[0094] Furthermore, in the pen-type electronic device 1g, the first electrode 42g1 and the piezoelectric film 41 are not in contact with each other at least in a portion between the flat surface FS and the housing 8. This makes it difficult for deformation of the housing 8 to be transmitted to the piezoelectric film 41 between the flat surface FS and the housing 8. Therefore, the pen-type electronic device 1g can suppress polarization with different polarities and stabilize the output of the pressure sensor 4g.

[0095] FIG. 24 is an exploded perspective view of the pressure sensor 4g in a flat, unfolded state when the first electrode 42g1 has a notch N. As shown in FIG. 24, the first electrode 42g1 may have a notch N. As a result, the first electrode 42g1 is not provided in at least a portion between the flat surface FS and the housing 8, and a gap G exists between the piezoelectric element 40g and the housing 8 (between the piezoelectric film 41 and the second adhesive member 5). This prevents contact between the first electrode 42g1 and the piezoelectric film 41 in at least a portion between the flat surface FS and the housing 8. Even in this case, deformation of the housing 8 is less likely to be transmitted to the piezoelectric film 41 in at least a portion between the flat surface FS and the housing 8. This suppresses polarization of opposite polarities, stabilizing the output of the pressure sensor 4g.

[0096] FIG. 25 is an exploded perspective view of the pressure sensor 4g in a flat, unfolded state when the pressure sensor 4g has multiple first electrodes 42g2. As shown in FIG. 25, the piezoelectric element 40g may have multiple first electrodes 42g2. The multiple first electrodes 42g2 are aligned in the left-right direction. This creates gaps G between the multiple first electrodes 42g2. As a result, the first electrodes 42g2 are not provided in at least a portion between the flat surface FS and the housing 8, creating gaps G between the piezoelectric element 40g and the housing 8 (between the piezoelectric film 41 and the second adhesive member 5). This prevents contact between the first electrodes 42g2 and the piezoelectric film 41 in at least a portion between the flat surface FS and the housing 8. Even in this case, deformation of the housing 8 is less likely to be transmitted to the piezoelectric element 40g in at least a portion between the flat surface FS and the housing 8. This suppresses polarization of opposite polarities, stabilizing the output of the pressure sensor 4g.

[0097] [Other embodiments] The pen-type electronic device according to the present invention is not limited to the pen-type electronic devices 1, 1a to 1g, and can be modified within the scope of the gist thereof.

[0098] The structures of the pen-type electronic devices 1, 1a to 1g may be combined arbitrarily.

[0099] For example, the structures of the pen-type electronic devices 1a and 1g may be combined. FIG. 26 is an exploded perspective view of a pressure sensor 4h of a pen-type electronic device that combines the structures of the pen-type electronic devices 1a and 1g, when the pen-type electronic device is unfolded flat. As shown in FIG. 26, the pressure sensor 4h includes a piezoelectric element 40h. The piezoelectric element 40h has multiple piezoelectric films 41h and a first electrode 42a. The multiple piezoelectric films 41h are aligned in the left-right direction. This creates gaps G between the multiple piezoelectric films 41h. As a result, the piezoelectric film 41h is not provided at least partially between the flat surface FS and the housing 8, creating gaps G within the piezoelectric element 40h (between the first electrode 42a and the hot melt 44). This prevents contact between the first electrode 42a and the piezoelectric film 41h at least partially between the flat surface FS and the housing 8. Even in this case, deformation of the housing 8 is less likely to be transmitted to the piezoelectric element 40h at least partially between the flat surface FS and the housing 8. Therefore, polarization of different polarities can be suppressed, and the output of the pressure sensor 4h can be stabilized.

[0100] For example, the structures of the pen-type electronic devices 1b and 1g may be combined. FIG. 27 is an exploded perspective view of a pressure sensor 4i of a pen-type electronic device that combines the structures of the pen-type electronic devices 1b and 1g, when the pen-type electronic device is unfolded flat. As shown in FIG. 27, the pressure sensor 4i includes a piezoelectric element 40i. The piezoelectric element 40i has a first electrode 42a and a second electrode 43i. The second electrode 43i has a plurality of thin-walled portions TW. As a result, at least in a portion between the flat surface FS and the housing 8, the second electrode 43i has the thin-walled portions TW, and thus a gap G exists within the piezoelectric element 40i (between the hot melt 44 and the second electrode 43i). As a result, at least in a portion between the flat surface FS and the housing 8, the hot melt 44 and the second electrode 43i are not in contact. Note that at least in a portion between the flat surface FS and the housing 8, the second electrode 43i is not provided, and thus a gap G may exist within the piezoelectric element 40i (between the hot melt 44 and the substrate 45). This means that the hot melt 44 and the second electrode 43i do not need to come into contact with each other at least in a portion between the flat surface FS and the housing 8. Even in this case, deformation of the housing 8 is less likely to be transmitted to the piezoelectric element 40i at least in a portion between the flat surface FS and the housing 8. This suppresses polarization with opposite polarities, and stabilizes the output of the pressure sensor 4i.

[0101] For example, the structures of the pen-type electronic devices 1c and 1g may be combined. FIG. 28 is an exploded perspective view of a pressure sensor 4j of a pen-type electronic device that combines the structures of the pen-type electronic devices 1c and 1g, when the pen-type electronic device is unfolded flat. FIG. 29 is a front view of the pen-type electronic device and pressure sensor 4j that combines the structures of the pen-type electronic devices 1c and 1g. As shown in FIG. 28, the pressure sensor 4j includes a piezoelectric element 40j. The piezoelectric element 40j has a first electrode 42a. As shown in FIG. 29, the second adhesive member 5 may not be provided in at least a portion between the flat surface FS and the housing 8, so that a gap G may exist between the piezoelectric element 40j and the housing 8 (between the first electrode 42a and the cushion 6). As a result, the piezoelectric element 40j and the second adhesive member 5 are not in contact with each other at least in a portion between the flat surface FS and the housing 8. Even in this case, deformation of the housing 8 is less likely to be transmitted to the piezoelectric element 40j in at least a portion between the flat surface FS and the housing 8. Therefore, polarization of different polarities can be suppressed, and the output of the pressure sensor 4j can be stabilized.

[0102] For example, the structures of the pen-type electronic devices 1d and 1g may be combined. FIG. 30 is a front view of a pen-type electronic device and a pressure sensor 4j that combines the structures of the pen-type electronic devices 1d and 1g. As shown in FIG. 30, the pressure sensor 4j includes a piezoelectric element 40j. The piezoelectric element 40j has a first electrode 42a. Since the cushion 6 is not provided at least partially between the flat surface FS and the housing 8, a gap G may exist between the piezoelectric element 40j and the housing 8 (between the second adhesive member 5 and the protective member 7). Even in this case, deformation of the housing 8 is less likely to be transmitted to the piezoelectric element 40j at least partially between the flat surface FS and the housing 8. This suppresses polarization of opposite polarities, stabilizing the output of the pressure sensor 4j.

[0103] For example, the structures of the pen-type electronic devices 1e and 1g may be combined. FIG. 31 is a front view of a pen-type electronic device and a pressure sensor 4j that combines the structures of the pen-type electronic devices 1e and 1g. As shown in FIG. 31, the pressure sensor 4j includes a piezoelectric element 40j. The piezoelectric element 40j has a first electrode 42a. Since the protective member 7 is not provided in at least a portion between the flat surface FS and the housing 8, a gap G may exist between the piezoelectric element 40j and the housing 8 (between the cushion 6 and the housing 8). Even in this case, deformation of the housing 8 is less likely to be transmitted to the piezoelectric element 40j in at least a portion between the flat surface FS and the housing 8. Therefore, polarization of opposite polarities can be suppressed, and the output of the pressure sensor 4j can be stabilized.

[0104] For example, the structures of the pen-type electronic devices 1f and 1g may be combined. FIG. 32 is a front view of a pen-type electronic device and a pressure sensor 4j that combines the structures of the pen-type electronic devices 1f and 1g. As shown in FIG. 32, the pressure sensor 4j includes a piezoelectric element 40j. The piezoelectric element 40j has a first electrode 42a. The housing 8 has a thin-walled portion TW at least partially between the flat surface FS and the housing 8. The thickness of the thin-walled portion TW is thinner than the thickness of the housing 8 other than the thin-walled portion TW. Because the housing 8 has a thin-walled portion TW at least partially between the flat surface FS and the housing 8, a gap G may exist between the piezoelectric element 40j and the housing 8 (in this modification, between the protective member 7 and the housing 8). The distance between the protective member 7 and the housing 8 at least partially between the flat surface FS and the housing 8 is longer than the distance between the protective member 7 and the housing 8 at a position other than at least partially between the flat surface FS and the housing 8. Even in this case, deformation of the housing 8 is less likely to be transmitted to the piezoelectric element 40j at least partially between the flat surface FS and the housing 8. Therefore, polarization of different polarities can be suppressed, and the output of the pressure sensor 4j can be stabilized.

[0105] The present invention has the following configuration.

[0106] (1) A cylindrical housing; a pen holder at least a portion of which is housed inside the housing; a pressure sensor wrapped around the outer surface of the pen shaft and housed inside the housing; It is equipped with the pressure sensor includes a piezoelectric element, The piezoelectric element is located at at least one of the ends of the pressure sensor in the winding direction, a gap exists within the piezoelectric element or between the piezoelectric element and the housing in at least a part of the tip where the piezoelectric element exists; Pen-shaped electronic device.

[0107] (2) The pen further includes a first adhesive member that fixes the pressure sensor to the outer surface of the pen shaft at at least a portion of the tip where the piezoelectric element is present. The pen-type electronic device described in (1).

[0108] (3) The piezoelectric element is a piezoelectric film having opposing first and second principal surfaces; a first electrode provided on the first main surface; a second electrode provided on the second main surface; It has In at least a part of the tip where the piezoelectric element is present, the first electrode has a thin portion, or the first electrode is not provided, so that the gap exists and the first electrode and the piezoelectric film are not in contact with each other. A pen-type electronic device according to (1) or (2).

[0109] (4) The piezoelectric element is a piezoelectric film having opposing first and second principal surfaces; a first electrode provided on the first main surface; a second electrode provided on the second main surface; It has the piezoelectric film is not provided in at least a part of the tip where the piezoelectric element is present, so that the gap exists and the first electrode and the piezoelectric film are not in contact with each other; A pen-type electronic device according to (1) or (2).

[0110] (5) The piezoelectric element is a piezoelectric film having opposing first and second principal surfaces; a first electrode provided on the first main surface; a conductive adhesive member provided on the second main surface; a second electrode fixed to the second main surface by the conductive adhesive member; It has the second electrode has a thin portion at least in a part of the tip where the piezoelectric element is present, or the second electrode is not provided, so that the gap exists and the conductive adhesive member and the second electrode are not in contact with each other; A pen-type electronic device according to (1) or (2).

[0111] (6) The device further includes a member disposed between the housing and the pressure sensor, the member is not provided in at least a part of the tip where the piezoelectric element is present, and thus the gap exists. A pen-type electronic device according to (1) or (2).

[0112] (7) The member is a cushion, a second adhesive member that fixes the cushion to the pressure sensor, or a protective member that protects the pressure sensor. (6) A pen-type electronic device according to the present invention.

[0113] (8) the housing has a thin-walled portion at least in a part of the tip where the piezoelectric element is present, thereby causing the gap to exist; A pen-type electronic device according to (1) or (2).

[0114] (9) A cylindrical housing; a pen base at least partially housed within the housing and having a flat surface; a pressure sensor wrapped around the outer surface of the pen shaft and housed inside the housing; It is equipped with the pressure sensor includes a piezoelectric element, the piezoelectric element is present between the flat surface and the housing, a gap exists within the piezoelectric element or between the piezoelectric element and the housing in at least a portion between the flat surface and the housing; Pen-shaped electronic device.

[0115] (10) Further provided is a first adhesive member that fixes the pressure sensor to the flat surface. (9) A pen-type electronic device according to (9).

[0116] (11) The piezoelectric element is a piezoelectric film having opposing first and second principal surfaces; a first electrode provided on the first main surface; a second electrode provided on the second main surface; It has the first electrode has a thin portion or the first electrode is not provided in at least a part between the flat surface and the housing, so that the gap exists and the first electrode and the piezoelectric film are not in contact with each other; The pen-type electronic device according to (9) or (10).

[0117] (12) The piezoelectric element is a piezoelectric film having opposing first and second principal surfaces; a first electrode provided on the first main surface; a second electrode provided on the second main surface; It has the piezoelectric film is not provided in at least a portion between the flat surface and the housing, so that the gap exists and the first electrode and the piezoelectric film are not in contact with each other; The pen-type electronic device according to (9) or (10).

[0118] (13) The piezoelectric element is a piezoelectric film having opposing first and second principal surfaces; a first electrode provided on the first main surface; a conductive adhesive member provided on the second main surface; a second electrode fixed to the second main surface by the conductive adhesive member; It has the second electrode has a thin portion or the second electrode is not provided in at least a part between the flat surface and the housing, so that the gap exists and the conductive adhesive member and the second electrode are not in contact with each other; The pen-type electronic device according to (9) or (10).

[0119] (14) The device further includes a member disposed between the housing and the pressure sensor, the member is not provided in at least a portion between the flat surface and the housing, thereby causing the gap to exist; The pen-type electronic device according to (9) or (10).

[0120] (15) The member is a cushion, a second adhesive member that fixes the cushion to the pressure sensor, or a protective member that protects the pressure sensor. (14) A pen-type electronic device according to (14).

[0121] (16) The gap exists because the housing has a thin-walled portion at least in a part between the flat surface and the housing. The pen-type electronic device according to (9) or (10).

[0122] (17) The pen shaft extends in a first direction, A cross section of the pen shaft perpendicular to the first direction is a partially elliptical shape. A pen-type electronic device according to any one of (9) to (16). [Explanation of symbols]

[0123] 1, 1a to 1g: Pen-type electronic devices 2.2g: Pen body 3: First adhesive member 4, 4a to 4c, 4g to 4j: Pressure sensors 5, 5c: Second adhesive member 6,6d:Cushion 7,7e: Protective member 8, 8f: Cabinet 40, 40a-40c, 40g-40j: Piezoelectric element 41, 41a, 41h: Piezoelectric film 42,42a,42g1,42g2: 1st electrode 43,43b,43i: 2nd electrode 44:Hot melt 45: Base material 46: Coverlay 47: Shielding material DIR1: 1st direction DIR2:Second direction FS:Flat surface G: Gap GA: void LT: Left edge N: Notch OD: Orientation direction P1: 1st part RT: far right S1: First main surface S2: 2nd principal surface T1: 1st end T2: 2nd end TW: Thin wall part

Claims

1. A cylindrical housing; a pen holder at least a portion of which is housed inside the housing; a pressure sensor wrapped around the outer surface of the pen shaft and housed inside the housing; It is equipped with the pressure sensor includes a piezoelectric element, The piezoelectric element is located at at least one of the ends of the pressure sensor in the winding direction, a gap exists within the piezoelectric element or between the piezoelectric element and the housing in at least a part of the tip where the piezoelectric element exists; Pen-shaped electronic device.

2. a first adhesive member for fixing the pressure sensor to the outer surface of the pen shaft at at least a portion of the tip where the piezoelectric element is present; The pen-type electronic device according to claim 1 .

3. The piezoelectric element is a piezoelectric film having opposing first and second major surfaces; a first electrode provided on the first main surface; a second electrode provided on the second main surface; It has the first electrode has a thin portion at least in a part of the tip where the piezoelectric element is present, or the first electrode is not provided, so that the gap exists and the first electrode and the piezoelectric film are not in contact with each other; The pen-type electronic device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The piezoelectric element is a piezoelectric film having opposing first and second major surfaces; a first electrode provided on the first main surface; a second electrode provided on the second main surface; It has the piezoelectric film is not provided in at least a part of the tip where the piezoelectric element is present, so that the gap exists and the first electrode and the piezoelectric film are not in contact with each other; The pen-type electronic device according to claim 1 or 2.

5. The piezoelectric element is a piezoelectric film having opposing first and second major surfaces; a first electrode provided on the first main surface; a conductive adhesive member provided on the second main surface; a second electrode fixed to the second main surface by the conductive adhesive member; It has the second electrode has a thin portion at least in a part of the tip where the piezoelectric element is present, or the second electrode is not provided, so that the gap exists and the conductive adhesive member and the second electrode are not in contact with each other; The pen-type electronic device according to claim 1 or 2.

6. The device further includes a member disposed between the housing and the pressure sensor, the member is not provided in at least a part of the tip where the piezoelectric element is present, and thus the gap exists. The pen-type electronic device according to claim 1 or 2.

7. the member is a cushion, a second adhesive member that fixes the cushion to the pressure sensor, or a protective member that protects the pressure sensor; The pen-type electronic device according to claim 6 .

8. the housing has a thin-walled portion at least in a part of the tip where the piezoelectric element is present, thereby causing the gap to exist; The pen-type electronic device according to claim 1 or 2.

9. A cylindrical housing; a pen base at least partially housed within the housing and having a flat surface; a pressure sensor wrapped around the outer surface of the pen shaft and housed inside the housing; It is equipped with the pressure sensor includes a piezoelectric element, the piezoelectric element is present between the flat surface and the housing, a gap exists within the piezoelectric element or between the piezoelectric element and the housing in at least a portion between the flat surface and the housing; Pen-shaped electronic device.

10. The pressure sensor further includes a first adhesive member that fixes the pressure sensor to the flat surface. The pen-type electronic device according to claim 9 .

11. The piezoelectric element is a piezoelectric film having opposing first and second major surfaces; a first electrode provided on the first main surface; a second electrode provided on the second main surface; It has the first electrode has a thin portion or the first electrode is not provided in at least a part between the flat surface and the housing, so that the gap exists and the first electrode and the piezoelectric film are not in contact with each other; The pen-type electronic device according to claim 9 or 10.

12. The piezoelectric element is a piezoelectric film having opposing first and second major surfaces; a first electrode provided on the first main surface; a second electrode provided on the second main surface; It has the piezoelectric film is not provided in at least a portion between the flat surface and the housing, so that the gap exists and the first electrode and the piezoelectric film are not in contact with each other; The pen-type electronic device according to claim 9 or 10.

13. The piezoelectric element is a piezoelectric film having opposing first and second major surfaces; a first electrode provided on the first main surface; a conductive adhesive member provided on the second main surface; a second electrode fixed to the second main surface by the conductive adhesive member; It has the second electrode has a thin portion or the second electrode is not provided in at least a part between the flat surface and the housing, so that the gap exists and the conductive adhesive member and the second electrode are not in contact with each other; The pen-type electronic device according to claim 9 or 10.

14. The device further includes a member disposed between the housing and the pressure sensor, the member is not provided in at least a portion between the flat surface and the housing, thereby causing the gap to exist; The pen-type electronic device according to claim 9 or 10.

15. the member is a cushion, a second adhesive member that fixes the cushion to the pressure sensor, or a protective member that protects the pressure sensor; The pen-type electronic device according to claim 14.

16. The gap exists because the housing has a thin-walled portion at least in a part between the flat surface and the housing. The pen-type electronic device according to claim 9 or 10.

17. The pen shaft extends in a first direction, a cross section of the pen shaft perpendicular to the first direction has a semi-elliptical shape; The pen-type electronic device according to claim 9 or 10.

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