tactile presentation device

Abstract

To provide a tactile sense presentation device which can suitably present tactile sense even in a case in which an array pitch of an electrode is comparatively small, and is excellent in mass productivity.SOLUTION: A tactile sense presentation device includes a tactile sense presentation part and a control part. The tactile sense presentation part includes a plurality of electrodes for anodes and a plurality of electrodes for cathodes. The control part can switch the respective electrodes for anodes between a first state where an anode potential is given to the electrodes and a second state where a floating potential is given to the electrodes, and can switch the respective electrodes for cathodes between a third state where the cathode potential is given to the electrodes and a fourth state where the floating potential is given to the electrodes. The control part controls the tactile sense presentation part so that at least the arbitrary one electrode for anode is in the first state, the electrodes for anodes other than the electrodes for anodes in the first state are in the second state, the electrodes for cathodes with a distance of 1.0 mm or less from at least the electrode for cathode in the first state are in the fourth state, the electrodes for cathodes other than the electrodes for cathodes in the fourth state are in the third state, and the total area of the electrodes for anodes in the first state and the electrodes for cathodes in the third state is 0.7 cm2 or more.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7A

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a tactile presentation device, and more particularly to a tactile presentation device that presents a tactile sensation through electrical stimulation. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, tactile presentation devices (sometimes called "haptic devices") that can present tactile sensations to users have attracted attention and are increasingly being used in a wide range of applications, including medicine, education, entertainment, and remote control. Several types of tactile presentation devices are known. Currently, the most widely used types are those that present tactile sensations by applying force to the user or those that present tactile sensations by applying vibration to the user, but recently, methods that present tactile sensations through electrical stimulation have also been seen as promising. A tactile presentation device that uses electrical stimulation is disclosed in Patent Document 1, for example. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-251948 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] In a tactile presentation device that uses electrical stimulation, multiple electrodes are arranged at a predetermined pitch in the area that comes into contact with the user's skin, and a current path from the anode to the cathode is formed under the skin, stimulating sensory receptors (e.g., Meissner's corpuscles) under the skin to present a tactile sensation. In this type of tactile presentation device, it is thought that the resolution of the tactile sensation can be increased by reducing the electrode arrangement pitch.

[0005] However, after detailed investigation, the inventors of the present invention found that if the electrode arrangement pitch is reduced, there is a risk that the tactile sensation will not be felt, even if efforts are made to maintain the electrode area.

[0006] Furthermore, in the tactile presentation device disclosed in Patent Document 1, each electrode is switched between a state where it is connected to a power supply (a state where it functions as an anode) and a state where it is connected to GND (a state where it functions as a cathode). However, in this configuration where each electrode is switched between a state where it functions as an anode and a state where it functions as a cathode, the circuitry and driving become complicated, which leads to an increase in the size of the device and an increase in manufacturing costs, and there is a risk that mass productivity will be reduced.

[0007] An embodiment of the present invention has been made in consideration of the above problems, and its purpose is to provide a tactile presentation device that can effectively present tactile sensations even when the arrangement pitch of electrodes for applying electrical stimulation is relatively small, and that is easy to mass-produce. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] This specification discloses a tactile presentation device described in the following items.

[0009] [Item 1] At least one tactile sensation providing unit, each of which provides a tactile sensation to the fingertip pad of one finger by electrical stimulation; a control unit that controls the at least one tactile presentation unit, Each of the at least one tactile sense providing unit a support having a major surface; a plurality of anode electrodes provided on a main surface of the support and arranged in a matrix at an arrangement pitch of 1.5 mm or less; a plurality of cathode electrodes provided on the main surface of the support so as not to overlap the plurality of anode electrodes in a plan view, and arranged at an arrangement pitch equal to or greater than the arrangement pitch of the plurality of anode electrodes, each having an area larger than an area of each of the plurality of anode electrodes; Including, The control unit Each of the plurality of anode electrodes can be independently switched between a first state in which an anode potential is applied and a second state in which a floating potential is applied, and each of the plurality of cathode electrodes can be independently switched between a third state in which a cathode potential is applied and a fourth state in which a floating potential is applied; When the tactile sensation providing unit provides a tactile sensation, The control unit At least one arbitrary anode electrode among the plurality of anode electrodes is in the first state, anode-use electrodes other than the anode-use electrodes in the first state among the plurality of anode-use electrodes are in the second state, Among the plurality of cathode electrodes, at least a cathode electrode located within 1.0 mm from an anode electrode in the first state is in the fourth state, Among the plurality of cathode electrodes, cathode electrodes other than the cathode electrodes in the fourth state are in the third state, and The total area of the anode electrode in the first state and the cathode electrode in the third state is 0.7 cm 2 As described above, the tactile presentation device controls the tactile presentation unit.

[0010] [Item 2] Item 1. The tactile presentation device according to item 1, wherein the plurality of anode electrodes are formed from gold, platinum, titanium, a carbon-based material, or a conductive metal oxide.

[0011] [Item 3] 3. The tactile presentation device according to item 1 or 2, wherein the arrangement pitch of the plurality of cathode electrodes is larger than the arrangement pitch of the plurality of anode electrodes.

[0012] [Item 4] 4. The tactile presentation device according to any one of items 1 to 3, wherein the number of the plurality of cathode electrodes is equal to or less than the number of the plurality of anode electrodes.

[0013] [Item 5] 4. The tactile presentation device according to any one of items 1 to 3, wherein the number of the plurality of cathode electrodes is smaller than the number of the plurality of anode electrodes.

[0014] [Item 6] 6. The tactile presentation device according to any one of items 1 to 5, wherein each of the plurality of cathode electrodes has a shape that surrounds at least one of the plurality of anode electrodes in a plan view.

[0015] [Item 7] Item 7. The tactile presentation device according to item 6, wherein each of the plurality of cathode electrodes has a shape that surrounds two or more of the plurality of anode electrodes in a planar view.

[0016] [Item 8] 8. A tactile presentation device according to any one of items 1 to 7, wherein the plurality of cathode electrodes are arranged in one row and multiple columns, and each of the plurality of cathode electrodes has a shape whose longitudinal direction is defined in the column direction. [Effects of the Invention]

[0017] According to an embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to provide a tactile presentation device that can provide a tactile sensation appropriately even when the arrangement pitch of electrodes for providing electrical stimulation is relatively small, and that is highly suitable for mass production. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0018] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram schematically illustrating a tactile presentation device 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the fingertip pad fp. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a plan view showing the tactile sense presentation unit 10 included in the tactile presentation device 100, showing the state in which the tactile sense presentation unit 10 is placed on a fingertip pad fp. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is an enlarged plan view showing the tactile sense providing unit 10. [Figure 5] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the tactile sense providing unit 10. [Figure 6]FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an equivalent circuit of the tactile sense providing unit 10. [Figure 7A] 10 is a diagram showing the states (applied potentials) of the anode electrode 12 and the cathode electrode 13 when the tactile sense providing section 10 provides a tactile sensation. FIG. [Figure 7B] 10 is a diagram showing the states (applied potentials) of the anode electrode 12 and the cathode electrode 13 when the tactile sense providing section 10 provides a tactile sensation. FIG. [Figure 8A] 10 is a diagram showing the states (applied potentials) of the anode electrode 12 and the cathode electrode 13 when the tactile sense providing section 10 provides a tactile sensation. FIG. [Figure 8B] 10 is a diagram showing the states (applied potentials) of the anode electrode 12 and the cathode electrode 13 when the tactile sense providing section 10 provides a tactile sensation. FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 1 shows a flexible printed circuit board (FPC) 1 used to verify the anode-cathode distance and the total anode and cathode area. [Figure 10] 1 is a graph showing the relationship between the anode-cathode distance (cm) and the tactile value (mm). [Figure 11] 1 is a graph showing the relationship between voltage (Vrms) and tactile value (mm). [Figure 12] 10 is a plan view showing a tactile presentation unit 810 included in the tactile presentation device of Comparative Example 1. FIG. [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an equivalent circuit of a tactile sense providing unit 810. [Figure 14A] 10 is a diagram showing the states (applied potentials) of an anode electrode 812 and a common cathode 813 when a tactile sensation is presented by a tactile sensation providing unit 810. FIG. [Figure 14B] 10 is a diagram showing the states (applied potentials) of an anode electrode 812 and a common cathode 813 when a tactile sensation is presented by a tactile sensation providing unit 810. FIG. [Figure 15] 10 is a plan view showing a tactile presentation unit 910 included in a tactile presentation device of Comparative Example 2. FIG. [Figure 16A] 10 is a diagram showing the states (applied potentials) of an anode electrode 912 and a cathode electrode 913 when a tactile sensation is presented by a tactile sensation providing unit 910. FIG. [Figure 16B]10 is a diagram showing the states (applied potentials) of an anode electrode 912 and a cathode electrode 913 when a tactile sensation is presented by a tactile sensation providing unit 910. FIG. [Figure 17] FIG. 2 is a plan view schematically showing a tactile presentation unit 10 of another tactile presentation device 200 according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 18A] 10 is a diagram showing the states (applied potentials) of the anode electrode 12 and the cathode electrode 13 when the tactile sensation presentation section 10 of the tactile sensation presentation device 200 presents a tactile sensation. [Figure 18B] 10 is a diagram showing the states (applied potentials) of the anode electrode 12 and the cathode electrode 13 when the tactile sensation presentation section 10 of the tactile sensation presentation device 200 presents a tactile sensation. [Figure 18C] 10 is a diagram showing the states (applied potentials) of the anode electrode 12 and the cathode electrode 13 when the tactile sensation presentation section 10 of the tactile sensation presentation device 200 presents a tactile sensation. [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is a plan view schematically showing a tactile presentation unit 10 of still another tactile presentation device 300 according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 20A] 10 is a diagram showing the states (applied potentials) of the anode electrode 12 and the cathode electrode 13 when the tactile sensation presentation section 10 of the tactile sensation presentation device 300 presents a tactile sensation. [Figure 20B] 10 is a diagram showing the states (applied potentials) of the anode electrode 12 and the cathode electrode 13 when the tactile sensation presentation section 10 of the tactile sensation presentation device 300 presents a tactile sensation. [Figure 20C] 10 is a diagram showing the states (applied potentials) of the anode electrode 12 and the cathode electrode 13 when the tactile sensation presentation section 10 of the tactile sensation presentation device 300 presents a tactile sensation. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0019] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings, but the present invention is not limited to the following embodiments.

[0020] [Embodiment 1] A tactile presentation device 100 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 and 2. Figure 1 is a block diagram that schematically shows the tactile presentation device 100. In addition to the tactile presentation device 100, Figure 1 also shows a personal computer (PC) 210 and a head-mounted display (HMD) 220.

[0021] 1, the tactile presentation device 100 includes at least one tactile presentation unit 10 and a control unit 20 that controls the at least one tactile presentation unit 10. In the example shown in the figure, the tactile presentation device 100 includes a plurality of, more specifically, five tactile presentation units 10. Note that the number of tactile presentation units 10 is not limited to five.

[0022] When the tactile presentation device 100 is used, the five tactile presentation units 10 are arranged so as to come into contact with the fingertips of five fingers F of a user's hand H (shown by dotted lines in FIG. 1). Each tactile presentation unit 10 presents a tactile sensation to the fingertip pad of one finger F by electrical stimulation. Here, the "fingertip pad" refers to the area fp located beyond the first joint j1 of the finger F and on the palm side of the center when the finger F is viewed from the side, as shown in FIG. 2.

[0023] The control unit 20 controls the tactile sense presentation unit 10. The control unit 20 controls the tactile sense presentation unit 10 based on a control signal transmitted from the PC 210. Data communication between the control unit 20 and the PC 210 may be performed by wireless communication or by wired communication. The wireless communication and wired communication may be performed in accordance with various known communication standards. The control unit 20 is realized by, for example, a microcomputer.

[0024] The tactile sense presentation unit 10 uses a flexible substrate and wiring, and is wired so as not to interfere with the movement of the hand H. The control unit 20 may be disposed, for example, in a part corresponding to the user's arm. The tactile sense presentation unit 10 and the control unit 20 may be integrated into a glove.

[0025] The PC 210 outputs a video signal to the HMD 220, and the HMD 220 performs display based on the received video signal. The HMD 220 also outputs position tracking data, which is information related to the position of the HMD 220, to the PC 210. Data communication between the PC 210 and the HMD 220 may be performed by wireless communication or by wired communication. The PC 210 may be provided outside the HMD 220 or may be built into the HMD 220.

[0026] Note that, although an example is shown here in which the tactile presentation device 100 presents a tactile sensation in conjunction with a display by the HMD 220, the use of the tactile presentation device 100 is not limited to this.

[0027] The specific configuration of the tactile sense presentation unit 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 3 to Fig. 6. Fig. 3 is a plan view showing the tactile sense presentation unit 10 in a state where it is placed on the fingertip pad fp, and Fig. 4 is an enlarged plan view showing the tactile sense presentation unit 10. Fig. 5 is a cross-sectional view schematically showing the tactile sense presentation unit 10, and Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an equivalent circuit of the tactile sense presentation unit 10.

[0028] 3, each tactile sense provision unit 10 has a substantially rectangular shape in a plan view. There are no particular limitations on the ratio between the horizontal width w1 and the vertical width w2 of the tactile sense provision unit 10. Note that the shape of the tactile sense provision unit 10 is not limited to a substantially rectangular shape.

[0029] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, each tactile sense providing unit 10 includes an array substrate (support) 11 having a main surface 11a, a plurality of anode electrodes 12, and a plurality of cathode electrodes 13.

[0030] A plurality of anode electrodes 12 are provided on the main surface 11a of the array substrate 11. The anode electrodes 12 are arranged in a matrix. For convenience, in this specification, one of the two arrangement directions of the anode electrodes 12 is referred to as the "row direction" and the other as the "column direction."

[0031] The arrangement pitch of the anode electrodes 12 is 1.5 mm or less. That is, the arrangement pitch p1a of the anode electrodes 12 along the row direction and the arrangement pitch p1b of the anode electrodes 12 along the column direction are both 1.5 mm or less. By setting the arrangement pitch of the anode electrodes 12 to 1.5 mm or less, the tactile sense can be provided with sufficiently high definition.

[0032] The plurality of cathode electrodes 13 are provided on the main surface 11a of the array substrate 11 so as not to overlap the anode electrodes 12 in a plan view. The plurality of cathode electrodes 13 are also arranged in a matrix.

[0033] The arrangement pitch of the cathode electrodes 13 is the same as the arrangement pitch of the anode electrodes 12. In other words, the arrangement pitch p2a of the cathode electrodes 13 along the row direction is the same as the arrangement pitch p1a of the anode electrodes 12 along the row direction, and the arrangement pitch p2b of the cathode electrodes 13 along the column direction is the same as the arrangement pitch p1b of the anode electrodes 12 along the column direction.

[0034] The area of each cathode electrode 13 is different from the area of each anode electrode 12. More specifically, the area of each cathode electrode 13 is larger than the area of each anode electrode 12.

[0035] Each cathode electrode 13 has a shape that surrounds one anode electrode 12 in a plan view. In the illustrated example, each anode electrode 12 has a substantially rectangular shape, and each cathode electrode 13 has a substantially square frame shape that surrounds one anode electrode 12. In this embodiment, the number of cathode electrodes 13 is the same as the number of anode electrodes 12. The shape of the anode electrodes 12 is not limited to the substantially rectangular shape exemplified here, and may be, for example, a substantially circular shape, a substantially oval shape, or a substantially polygonal shape other than a substantially rectangular shape. Similarly, the shape of the cathode electrodes 13 is not limited to the substantially square frame shape exemplified here.

[0036] The array substrate 11 supports anode electrodes 12 and cathode electrodes 13. The array substrate 11 may be flexible as a whole. The array substrate 11 has a plurality of gate lines GL, a plurality of first source lines SL1, a plurality of second source lines SL2, a plurality of first TFTs 14, a plurality of second TFTs 15, and a substrate 11b that supports these.

[0037] The gate lines GL extend in a certain direction (for example, one of the row direction and the column direction). The first source lines SL1 and the second source lines SL2 extend in a direction (for example, the other of the row direction and the column direction) that intersects with the direction in which the gate lines GL extend.

[0038] Each of the plurality of first TFTs 14 is provided corresponding to each of the plurality of anode electrodes 12. The first TFT 14 has a gate electrode 14g, a gate insulating layer 14i, a semiconductor layer 14a, and a source electrode 14s. The gate electrode 14g is electrically connected to the corresponding gate line GL. The gate insulating layer 14i is formed to cover the gate electrode 14g. The semiconductor layer 14a is formed on the gate insulating layer 14i and faces the gate electrode 14g via the gate insulating layer 14i. There are no particular limitations on the material of the semiconductor layer 14a. The source electrode 14s is electrically connected to the semiconductor layer 14a. The source electrode 14s is also electrically connected to the corresponding first source line SL1.

[0039] Each of the second TFTs 15 is provided corresponding to a corresponding one of the cathode electrodes 13. The second TFT 15 has a gate electrode 15g, a gate insulating layer 15i, a semiconductor layer 15a, and a source electrode 15s. The gate electrode 15g is electrically connected to a corresponding gate line GL. The gate insulating layer 15i is formed to cover the gate electrode 15g. The semiconductor layer 15a is formed on the gate insulating layer 15i and faces the gate electrode 15g via the gate insulating layer 15i. There are no particular limitations on the material of the semiconductor layer 15a. The source electrode 15s is electrically connected to the semiconductor layer 15a. The source electrode 15s is also electrically connected to a corresponding second source line SL2.

[0040] An interlayer insulating layer 16 is formed to cover the first TFT 14 and the second TFT 15, and an anode electrode 12 and a cathode electrode 13 are provided on the interlayer insulating layer 16. A first contact hole CH1 that exposes a portion of the semiconductor layer 14a of the first TFT 14 and a second contact hole CH2 that exposes a portion of the semiconductor layer 15a of the second TFT 15 are formed in the interlayer insulating layer 16.

[0041] The anode electrode 12 is electrically connected to the semiconductor layer 14a of the first TFT 14 through the first contact hole CH1. A predetermined anode potential is applied to the anode electrode 12 from the first source line SL1 via the first TFT 14. The first source line SL1 is connected to, for example, a power supply, and in this case, the anode potential is the power supply potential.

[0042] The cathode electrode 13 is electrically connected to the semiconductor layer 15a of the second TFT 15 through the second contact hole CH2. A predetermined cathode potential lower than the anode potential is applied to the cathode electrode 13 from the second source line SL2 via the second TFT 15. The second source line SL2 is connected to, for example, ground (GND), and in this case, the cathode potential is the ground potential.

[0043] The control unit 20 controls the tactile sense providing unit 10 having the above-described configuration as follows.

[0044] The control unit 20 can independently switch each of the multiple anode electrodes 12 between a state in which an anode potential is applied (hereinafter referred to as a "first state") and a state in which a floating potential is applied (hereinafter referred to as a "second state"). The control unit 20 can also independently switch each of the multiple cathode electrodes 13 between a state in which a cathode potential is applied (hereinafter referred to as a "third state") and a state in which a floating potential is applied (hereinafter referred to as a "fourth state"). By the control unit 20 appropriately performing such switching, a tactile sensation can be presented to a desired part of the tactile presentation unit 10.

[0045] When the tactile sense providing unit 10 provides a tactile sense, the control unit 20 specifically controls the tactile sense providing unit 10 so that the following conditions [1] to [5] are satisfied.

[0046] [1] At least one of the anode electrodes 12 is in the "first state" (i.e., is given an anode potential) among the plurality of anode electrodes 12. Here, the anode electrode 12 in the first state is the anode electrode 12 located at a portion of the tactile sense presentation unit 10 where a tactile sensation is desired to be presented.

[0047] [2] Of the plurality of anode electrodes 12, the anode electrodes 12 other than the anode electrodes 12 in the first state are in the "second state" (that is, are given a floating potential).

[0048] [3] Of the multiple cathode electrodes 13, at least the cathode electrodes 13 that are within 1.0 mm of the anode electrodes 12 that are in the first state are in the “fourth state” (i.e., are given a floating potential).

[0049] [4] Of the plurality of cathode electrodes 13, the cathode electrodes 13 other than the cathode electrode 13 in the fourth state are in the third state (that is, are given a cathode potential).

[0050] [5] The total area of the anode electrode 12 in the first state and the cathode electrode 13 in the third state (i.e., the total area of the electrodes functioning as anodes and cathodes) is 0.7 cm2 That's all.

[0051] By satisfying the above-mentioned conditions [1] to [5], tactile sensation can be presented effectively even when the electrode arrangement pitch is relatively small (specifically, 1.5 mm or less), as will be described in detail later in the verification results.

[0052] Here, with reference to FIGS. 7A and 7B, an example of control by the control unit 20 when the tactile presentation unit 10 presents a tactile sensation will be described. FIGS. 7A and 7B are diagrams showing the states (applied potentials) of the anode electrode 12 and the cathode electrode 13 of the tactile presentation unit 10. FIG. 7A shows a case where a tactile sensation is presented to a portion of the tactile presentation unit 10 corresponding to the anode electrode 12 located in the third row and second column in the figure, and FIG. 7B shows a case where a tactile sensation is presented to a portion of the tactile presentation unit 10 corresponding to the anode electrode 12 located in the third row and third column in the figure. In FIGS. 7A and 7B, the anode electrode 12 in the first state (i.e., to which an anode potential is applied) is hatched downward to the left, and the cathode electrode 13 in the third state (i.e., to which a cathode potential is applied) is hatched downward to the right.

[0053] In this example, the area of each tactile sense presentation unit 10 is set to 1.103 cm 2 (The horizontal width w1 and vertical width w2 are both 1.050 cm.) The anode electrode 12 has a side length of 0.067 cm and an area of 0.0045 cm. 2 The cathode electrode 13 has an outer edge with a length of 0.1490 cm and an area of 0.0175 cm. 2 The arrangement pitch is 0.1500 cm. The gap between the anode electrodes 12 and cathode electrodes 13 and the gap between adjacent cathode electrodes 13 are both 0.0010 cm. The anode electrodes 12 are arranged in 7 rows and 7 columns, totaling 49. The cathode electrodes 13 are also arranged in 7 rows and 7 columns, totaling 49. The outermost surfaces of the anode electrodes 12 and cathode electrodes 13 are ITO layers.

[0054] 7A, one anode electrode 12 located in the third row and second column is in the first state, and the other anode electrodes 12 are in the second state. Also, nine cathode electrodes 13 located in the second row and first to third columns, the third row and first to third columns, and the fourth row and first to third columns are in the fourth state, and the other cathode electrodes 13 are in the third state.

[0055] 7B, one anode electrode 12 located in the third row and third column is in the first state, and the other anode electrodes 12 are in the second state. Also, nine cathode electrodes 13 located in the second row and second to fourth columns, the third row and second to fourth columns, and the fourth row and second to fourth columns are in the fourth state, and the other cathode electrodes 13 are in the third state.

[0056] In both the state shown in FIG. 7A and the state shown in FIG. 7B, the shortest distance between the anode electrode 12 functioning as an anode and the cathode electrode 13 functioning as a cathode (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "anode-cathode distance") is 0.1920 cm, and the total area of the anode electrode 12 functioning as an anode and the cathode electrode 13 functioning as a cathode (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "total anode-cathode area") is 0.7045 cm. 2 Therefore, all of the conditions [1] to [5] already explained are satisfied, and the tactile sensation can be presented in a suitable manner.

[0057] Note that the control by the control unit 20 is not limited to the example in which one anode electrode 12 is set to the first state as described with reference to Figures 7A and 7B. Two or more anode electrodes 12 may be set to the first state.

[0058] 8A and 8B, another example of control by the control unit 20 when the tactile presentation unit 10 presents a tactile sensation will be described. FIGS. 8A and 8B are diagrams showing the states (applied potentials) of the anode electrodes 12 and cathode electrodes 13 of the tactile presentation unit 10. FIG. 8A shows a case where a tactile sensation is presented to portions of the tactile presentation unit 10 corresponding to the anode electrodes 12 located in the third row, second column and the fourth row, second column in the figure, and FIG. 8B shows a case where a tactile sensation is presented to portions of the tactile presentation unit 10 corresponding to the anode electrodes 12 located in the third row, third column and the fourth row, third column in the figure. In FIGS. 8A and 8B, the anode electrodes 12 in the first state (i.e., to which an anode potential is applied) are hatched downward to the left, and the cathode electrodes 13 in the third state (i.e., to which a cathode potential is applied) are hatched downward to the right.

[0059] In this example, the area of each tactile sense presentation unit 10 is set to 2.247 cm 2 (The horizontal width w1 and vertical width w2 are both 1.499 cm.) The anode electrode 12 has a side length of 0.058 cm and an area of 0.0034 cm. 2 The cathode electrode 13 has an outer edge with a length of 0.1490 cm and an area of 0.0186 cm. 2 The arrangement pitch is 0.1500 cm. The gap between the anode electrodes 12 and cathode electrodes 13 and the gap between adjacent cathode electrodes 13 are both 0.0010 cm. The anode electrodes 12 are arranged in 10 rows and 10 columns, and there are 100 of them. The cathode electrodes 13 are also arranged in 10 rows and 10 columns, and there are 100 of them. The outermost surfaces of the anode electrodes 12 and cathode electrodes 13 are ITO layers.

[0060] 8A, two anode electrodes 12 located in the third row, second column and the fourth row, second column are in the first state, and the other anode electrodes 12 are in the second state. Also, 30 cathode electrodes 13 located in the first to third columns are in the fourth state, and the other cathode electrodes 13 are in the third state. In other words, all cathode electrodes 13 in the same column as the anode electrode 12 in the first state and in the columns on both sides of it are in the fourth state.

[0061] 8B, two anode electrodes 12 located in the third row, third column and the fourth row, third column are in the first state, and the other anode electrodes 12 are in the second state. Also, 30 cathode electrodes 13 located in the second to fourth columns are in the fourth state, and the other cathode electrodes 13 are in the third state. In other words, all cathode electrodes 13 in the same column as the anode electrode 12 in the first state and in the columns on both sides of it are in the fourth state.

[0062] In both the state shown in FIG. 8A and the state shown in FIG. 8B, the shortest distance between anode electrode 12 functioning as an anode and cathode electrode 13 functioning as a cathode (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "anode-cathode distance") is 0.1965 cm, and the total area of anode electrode 12 functioning as an anode and cathode electrode 13 functioning as a cathode (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the "total anode-cathode area") is 1.3088 cm. 2 Therefore, all of the conditions [1] to [5] already explained are satisfied, and the tactile sensation can be presented in a suitable manner.

[0063] Furthermore, in the tactile presentation device 100 of this embodiment, as already explained, the anode electrode 12 is switched between a first state and a second state, and the cathode electrode 13 is switched between a third state and a fourth state. In contrast, in the tactile presentation device disclosed in Patent Document 1, each electrode is switched between a state connected to a power supply and a state connected to GND. In a configuration in which each electrode is switched between a state in which it functions as an anode and a state in which it functions as a cathode, as in the tactile presentation device of Patent Document 1, the circuitry and driving become complicated, leading to an increase in the size of the tactile presentation unit and an increase in manufacturing costs, which may reduce mass productivity. By separately providing the electrode that functions as an anode (anode electrode 12) and the electrode that functions as a cathode (cathode electrode 13) as in this embodiment, the circuitry and driving can be made relatively simple, improving mass productivity.

[0064] [Verification results of anode-cathode distance and total anode and cathode area] Here, the results of verification of the anode-cathode distance and the total anode and cathode area will be explained.

[0065] The verification was carried out using an FPC (flexible printed circuit board) 1 with 20 pins 2 arranged in one direction, as shown in Figure 9. Of the 20 pins 2, a predetermined square wave was input to the pin 2 that functioned as the anode, and the pin 2 that functioned as the cathode was connected to GND.

[0066] In examining the anode-cathode distance, a square wave with a high-level voltage of 40 Vrms, a low-level voltage of 0 Vrms, and a duty ratio of 50% was used. Table 1 shows the seven voltage application patterns (#1 to #7) used to examine the anode-cathode distance. In Table 1, the 20 pins 2 in Figure 9 are numbered in order, starting from the leftmost pin 2. Additionally, the pin 2 that functions as an anode is labeled "A," and the pin 2 that functions as a cathode is labeled "C."

[0067] [Table 1]

[0068] Table 2 shows the results of the anode-cathode distance verification, specifically the anode-cathode distance (cm) and the obtained tactile values (mm) for seven patterns #1 to #7. The tactile values are sensory values obtained by subjective human evaluation, specifically, the subjective evaluation and recording of the degree to which an electrical stimulus applied to the fingertip corresponds to a physical protrusion. Figure 10 also shows the relationship between the anode-cathode distance (cm) and the tactile values (mm).

[0069] [Table 2]

[0070] From Table 2 and Figure 10, it can be seen that from the viewpoint of obtaining a good tactile value, it is preferable that the anode-cathode distance be greater than 0.1 cm (i.e., 1 mm). Furthermore, as can be seen from Table 2 and Figure 10, from the viewpoint of obtaining a larger tactile value, it is more preferable that the anode-cathode distance be greater than or equal to 0.15 cm (i.e., 1.5 mm) and less than or equal to 0.35 cm (i.e., 3.5 mm), and most preferably about 0.25 cm (i.e., about 2.5 mm).

[0071] In the verification of the total anode and cathode area, a square wave was used in which the high-level voltage was of an arbitrary magnitude, the low-level voltage was 0 Vrms, and the duty ratio was 50%. Table 3 shows the seven voltage application patterns (#8 to #14) verified for the total anode and cathode area.

[0072] [Table 3]

[0073] Table 4 shows the verification results for the total area of the anode and cathode. Specifically, for the seven patterns #8 to #14, the total area of the anode and cathode (cm 2 ) and the obtained tactile value (mm). Also, Fig. 11 shows the relationship between voltage (Vrms) and tactile value (mm).

[0074] [Table 4]

[0075] From the viewpoint of safety, it is preferable that the voltage applied between the anode and cathode is 35 Vrms or less. Also, from the viewpoint of providing a sufficient tactile sensation, the tactile sensation value is 0.8 mm or more. From Table 4 and Figure 11, it is preferable that the total area of the anode and cathode is 0.7cm to obtain a tactile value of 0.8mm or more at a voltage of 35Vrms or less. 2 It is clear that the above is preferable.

[0076] From these verification results, it can be seen that the tactile sensation can be presented appropriately when the above-mentioned conditions [1] to [5] are satisfied.

[0077] [Comparative Example] A tactile presentation device as a comparative example will be described below.

[0078] First, the configuration of the tactile presentation unit 810 included in the tactile presentation device of Comparative Example 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 12 and Fig. 13. Fig. 12 is a plan view showing the tactile presentation unit 810, and Fig. 13 is a diagram showing an equivalent circuit of the tactile presentation unit 810.

[0079] The area of the tactile presentation unit 810 is 1 cm 2 (Both the horizontal and vertical widths are 1 cm). The tactile sense presentation unit 810 includes a plurality of anode electrodes 812 arranged in a matrix, and a single cathode (common cathode) 813. Each anode electrode 812 is square-shaped, and the common cathode 813 has a shape that surrounds all of the anode electrodes 812.

[0080] The tactile sense providing unit 810 further includes a plurality of gate lines GL, a plurality of source lines SL, and a plurality of TFTs 814. Each of the plurality of TFTs 814 is provided corresponding to a corresponding one of the plurality of anode electrodes 812. The gate electrode and source electrode of each TFT 814 are electrically connected to the corresponding gate line GL and the corresponding source line SL, respectively.

[0081] The anode electrode 812 is given a predetermined anode potential (power supply potential) from the source line SL via the TFT 814. The common cathode 813 is always electrically connected to GND (that is, is always given a cathode potential).

[0082] The anode electrodes 812 are arranged in 6 rows and 6 columns, and 36 of them are surrounded by a common cathode 813. Each electrode has a side length of 0.08 cm and an area of 0.0064 cm. 2 The arrangement pitches p1a and p1b are 0.15 cm. The gap between the anode electrode 812 and the common cathode 813 is 0.001 cm.

[0083] An example of control when the tactile presentation unit 810 presents a tactile sensation will be described with reference to FIGS. 14A and 14B. FIGS. 14A and 14B are diagrams showing the states (applied potentials) of the anode electrode 812 and the common cathode 813 of the tactile presentation unit 810. FIG. 14A shows a case where a tactile sensation is presented to a portion of the tactile presentation unit 810 corresponding to the anode electrode 812 located in the second row and second column of the figure, and FIG. 14B shows a case where a tactile sensation is presented to a portion of the tactile presentation unit 810 corresponding to the anode electrode 812 located in the second row and third column of the figure. In FIGS. 14A and 14B, the anode electrode 812 to which an anode potential is applied is hatched downward to the left, and the common cathode 813 to which a cathode potential is applied is hatched downward to the right.

[0084] In Comparative Example 1, the total area of the anode and cathode was approximately 0.7643 cm 2 and 0.7 cm 2 Although the distance between the anode and cathode is 0.001 cm, which is smaller than 0.1 cm, the tactile sensation cannot be perceived even when the applied voltage is 40 Vrms, which is higher than 35 Vrms. This is thought to be because the small distance between the anode and cathode causes the current to flow preferentially to the surface of the skin, preventing it from reaching the receptors.

[0085] Next, the configuration of the tactile presentation unit 910 included in the tactile presentation device of Comparative Example 2 will be described with reference to Fig. 15. Fig. 15 is a plan view showing the tactile presentation unit 910. The equivalent circuit of the tactile presentation unit 910 may be the same as the equivalent circuit shown in Fig. 6, and therefore is not shown here.

[0086] The area of the tactile sensation presentation unit 910 is 1.2 cm 2 The tactile sense presentation unit 910 includes a plurality of anode electrodes 912 arranged in a matrix, and a plurality of cathode electrodes 913 arranged in a matrix. Each anode electrode 912 is square, and each cathode electrode 913 is also square. In the tactile sense presentation unit 910, electrode rows of the anode electrodes 912 and electrode rows of the cathode electrodes 913 are arranged alternately.

[0087] The anode electrode 912 can be switched between a state in which it is applied with an anode potential and a state in which it is applied with a floating potential, and the cathode electrode 913 can be switched between a state in which it is applied with a cathode potential and a state in which it is applied with a floating potential.

[0088] The anode electrode 912 has a side length of 0.14 cm and an area of 0.0196 cm 2 The cathode electrode 913 has a side length of 0.14 cm and an area of 0.0196 cm. 2 The arrangement pitches p2a and p2b are 0.30 cm and 0.15 cm, respectively. The gap between the anode electrodes 912 and the cathode electrodes 913, the gap between adjacent anode electrodes 912, and the gap between adjacent cathode electrodes 913 are all 0.001 cm.

[0089] An example of control when the tactile sense presentation unit 910 presents a tactile sensation will be described with reference to FIGS. 16A and 16B. FIGS. 16A and 16B are diagrams showing the states (applied potentials) of the anode electrode 912 and the cathode electrode 913 of the tactile sense presentation unit 910. FIG. 16A shows a case where a tactile sense is presented to a portion of the tactile sense presentation unit 910 corresponding to the anode electrode 912 located in the third row and first column in the figure, and FIG. 16B shows a case where a tactile sense is presented to a portion of the tactile sense presentation unit 910 corresponding to the anode electrode 912 located in the third row and second column in the figure (the third row and third column if the anode electrode 912 and the cathode electrode 913 are not distinguished). In FIGS. 16A and 16B, the anode electrode 912 to which an anode potential is applied is hatched downward to the left, and the cathode electrode 913 to which a cathode potential is applied is hatched downward to the right.

[0090] In Comparative Example 2, the distance between the anode and cathode was greater than 0.1 cm, but the total area of the anode and cathode was approximately 0.5292 cm 2 and 0.7 cm 2 It is smaller than the human body, and therefore cannot perceive touch.

[0091] [Embodiment 2] The tactile presentation device 200 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 17. Fig. 17 is a plan view schematically showing the tactile presentation unit 10 of the tactile presentation device 200. The following description will focus on the differences between the tactile presentation device 200 of this embodiment and the tactile presentation device 100 of embodiment 1. A block diagram, cross-sectional view, and equivalent circuit diagram showing the tactile presentation device 200 may be the same as the block diagram, cross-sectional view, and equivalent circuit diagram for the tactile presentation device 100 of embodiment 1, and therefore will not be shown here.

[0092] The tactile presentation unit 10 of the tactile presentation device 200 includes a plurality of anode electrodes 12 arranged in a matrix and a plurality of cathode electrodes 13 arranged in a matrix. In this embodiment, the arrangement pitch of the plurality of cathode electrodes 13 is larger than the arrangement pitch of the plurality of anode electrodes 12. In other words, the arrangement pitch p2a of the cathode electrodes 13 along the row direction is larger than the arrangement pitch p1a of the anode electrodes 12 along the row direction, and the arrangement pitch p2b of the cathode electrodes 13 along the column direction is larger than the arrangement pitch p1b of the anode electrodes 12 along the column direction.

[0093] In this embodiment, the number of cathode electrodes 13 is smaller than the number of anode electrodes 12 (specifically, 1 / 4), and each cathode electrode 13 has a shape that surrounds four anode electrodes 12 in a plan view. Note that the number of anode electrodes 12 surrounded by each cathode electrode 13 is not limited to four.

[0094] In the tactile presentation device 200 of this embodiment, the control unit (not shown) controls the tactile presentation unit 10 so that the conditions [1] to [5] already described are satisfied, thereby enabling the tactile presentation to be performed in an optimal manner.

[0095] Here, with reference to Figs. 18A, 18B, and 18C, an example of control when the tactile presentation unit 10 presents a tactile sensation will be described. Figs. 18A, 18B, and 18C are diagrams showing the states (applied potentials) of the anode electrode 12 and the cathode electrode 13 of the tactile presentation unit 10. Fig. 18A shows a case where a tactile sensation is presented to a portion of the tactile presentation unit 10 corresponding to the anode electrode 12 located in the fifth row and fourth column in the figure. Fig. 18B shows a case where a tactile sensation is presented to a portion of the tactile presentation unit 10 corresponding to the anode electrode 12 located in the fifth row and fifth column in the figure, and Fig. 18C shows a case where a tactile sensation is presented to a portion of the tactile presentation unit 10 corresponding to the anode electrode 12 located in the fifth row and seventh column in the figure. In Figures 18A, 18B and 18C, anode electrodes 12 in the first state (i.e., to which an anode potential is applied) are hatched downward to the left, and cathode electrodes 13 in the third state (i.e., to which a cathode potential is applied) are hatched downward to the right.

[0096] In this example, each tactile sense providing unit 10 is square and has an area of 1.103 cm 2 (Both the horizontal and vertical widths are 1.050 cm). The anode electrode 12 has a side length of 0.032 cm and an area of 0.0010 cm. 2 The cathode electrode 13 has an outer edge with a length of 0.149 cm and an area of 0.0176 cm. 2 The arrangement pitch is 0.1500 cm. The anode electrodes 12 are arranged in 14 rows and 14 columns, with a total of 196 electrodes. The cathode electrodes 13 are arranged in 7 rows and 7 columns, with a total of 49 electrodes. The gap between the anode electrodes 12 and cathode electrodes 13 and the gap between adjacent cathode electrodes 13 are both 0.001 cm.

[0097] 18A, one anode electrode 12 located in the fifth row and fourth column is in the first state, and the other anode electrodes 12 are in the second state. Also, nine cathode electrodes 13 located in the second row and first to third columns, the third row and first to third columns, and the fourth row and first to third columns are in the fourth state, and the other cathode electrodes 13 are in the third state.

[0098] 18B, one anode electrode 12 located in the fifth row and fifth column is in the first state, and the other anode electrodes 12 are in the second state. Also, nine cathode electrodes 13 located in the second row and second to fourth columns, the third row and second to fourth columns, and the fourth row and second to fourth columns are in the fourth state, and the other cathode electrodes 13 are in the third state.

[0099] 18C, one anode electrode 12 located in the fifth row and seventh column is in the first state, and the other anode electrodes 12 are in the second state. Also, nine cathode electrodes 13 located in the second row and third to fifth columns, the third row and third to fifth columns, and the fourth row and third to fifth columns are in the fourth state, and the other cathode electrodes 13 are in the third state.

[0100] In each of the states shown in FIG. 18A, FIG. 18B, and FIG. 18C, the distance between the anode and the cathode is 0.1720 cm, and the total area of the anode and the cathode is 0.7050 cm. 2 Therefore, all of the conditions [1] to [5] already explained are satisfied, and the tactile sensation can be presented in a suitable manner.

[0101] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the arrangement pitch of the cathode electrodes 13 is larger than the arrangement pitch of the anode electrodes 12, and the number of cathode electrodes 13 is smaller than the number of anode electrodes 12. Therefore, the number of controlled cathode electrodes 13 can be reduced while improving the resolution of the tactile sensation that can be presented, thereby simplifying the circuitry and driving.

[0102] [Embodiment 3] The tactile presentation device 300 of this embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 19. Fig. 19 is a plan view schematically showing the tactile presentation unit 10 of the tactile presentation device 300. The following description will focus on the differences between the tactile presentation device 300 of this embodiment and the tactile presentation device 100 of embodiment 1. The block diagram, cross-sectional view, and equivalent circuit diagram showing the tactile presentation device 300 may be the same as the block diagram, cross-sectional view, and equivalent circuit diagram for the tactile presentation device 100 of embodiment 1, and therefore will not be shown here.

[0103] In the tactile presentation unit 10 of the tactile presentation device 300, a plurality of anode electrodes 12 are arranged in a matrix, whereas a plurality of cathode electrodes 13 are arranged in one row and multiple columns (here, 10 columns). The arrangement pitch p2a of the cathode electrodes 13 in the row direction is the same as the arrangement pitch p1a of the anode electrodes 12 in the row direction. Because the plurality of cathode electrodes 13 are arranged in one row and multiple columns, the arrangement pitch of the cathode electrodes 13 in the column direction is not specified.

[0104] In this embodiment, the number of cathode electrodes 13 is smaller than the number of anode electrodes 12, specifically 1 / 10. Each cathode electrode 13 has a shape whose longitudinal direction is defined in the column direction (i.e., the cathode electrodes 13 extend in the column direction as a whole). It can also be said that each cathode electrode 13 has a shape that surrounds ten anode electrodes 12 in a plan view.

[0105] In the tactile presentation device 300 of this embodiment, the control unit (not shown) controls the tactile presentation unit 10 so that the conditions [1] to [5] already described are satisfied, thereby enabling the tactile presentation to be performed in an optimal manner.

[0106] Here, an example of control when the tactile sense presentation unit 10 presents a tactile sense will be described with reference to Fig. 20A, Fig. 20B, and Fig. 20C. Fig. 20A, Fig. 20B, and Fig. 20C are diagrams showing the states (applied potentials) of the anode electrodes 12 and the cathode electrodes 13 of the tactile sense presentation unit 10. Fig. 20A shows a case where a tactile sense is presented to parts of the tactile sense presentation unit 10 corresponding to the anode electrodes 12 located in the second row, second column, the fourth row, second column, the fifth row, second column, the seventh row, second column, the eighth row, second column, and the ninth row, second column in the figure. 20B shows a case where a tactile sensation is presented to portions of the tactile sense presentation unit 10 corresponding to the anode electrodes 12 located at the third row and third column, the fifth row and third column, the sixth row and third column, the eighth row and third column, the ninth row and third column, and the tenth row and third column in the figure, and Fig. 20C shows a case where a tactile sensation is presented to portions of the tactile sense presentation unit 10 corresponding to the anode electrodes 12 located at the first row and fourth column, the fourth row and fourth column, the sixth row and fourth column, the seventh row and fourth column, the ninth row and fourth column, and the tenth row and fourth column in the figure. In Figs. 20A, 20B, and 20C, anode electrodes 12 in the first state (i.e., to which an anode potential is applied) are hatched downward to the left, and cathode electrodes 13 in the third state (i.e., to which a cathode potential is applied) are hatched downward to the right.

[0107] In this example, each tactile sense providing unit 10 is square and has an area of 2.235 cm 2 (The horizontal width is 1.490 cm and the vertical width is 1.500 cm). The anode electrode 12 has a side length of 0.050 cm and an area of 0.0025 cm. 2 The cathode electrodes 13 have a length of 0.140 cm along the row direction, a length of 1.500 cm along the column direction, and an area of 0.1610 cm. 2 The arrangement pitch along the row direction is 0.1500 cm. The anode electrodes 12 are arranged in 10 rows and 10 columns, with a total of 100 electrodes. The cathode electrodes 13 are arranged in 1 row and 10 columns, with a total of 10 electrodes. The gap between the anode electrodes 12 and cathode electrodes 13 and the gap between adjacent cathode electrodes 13 are both 0.01 cm.

[0108] 20A, six anode electrodes 12 located in the second row, second column, the fourth row, second column, the fifth row, second column, the seventh row, second column, the eighth row, second column, and the ninth row, second column are in the first state, and the other anode electrodes 12 are in the second state. Also, three cathode electrodes 13 located in the first to third columns are in the fourth state, and the other cathode electrodes 13 are in the third state.

[0109] 20B, six anode electrodes 12 located in the third row and third column, the fifth row and third column, the sixth row and third column, the eighth row and third column, the ninth row and third column, and the tenth row and third column are in the first state, and the other anode electrodes 12 are in the second state. Also, three cathode electrodes 13 located in the second to fourth columns are in the fourth state, and the other cathode electrodes 13 are in the third state.

[0110] 20C, six anode electrodes 12 located in the first row, fourth column, fourth row, sixth row, fourth column, seventh row, fourth column, ninth row, fourth column, and tenth row, fourth column are in the first state, and the other anode electrodes 12 are in the second state. Also, three cathode electrodes 13 located in the third to fifth columns are in the fourth state, and the other cathode electrodes 13 are in the third state.

[0111] In each of the states shown in FIG. 20A, FIG. 20B, and FIG. 20C, the distance between the anode and the cathode is 0.2050 cm, and the total area of the anode and the cathode is 1.1420 cm. 2 Therefore, all of the conditions [1] to [5] already explained are satisfied, and the tactile sensation can be presented in a suitable manner.

[0112] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the number of cathode electrodes 13 is smaller than the number of anode electrodes 12. Therefore, the number of cathode electrodes 13 to be controlled can be reduced while improving the resolution of the tactile sensation that can be presented, thereby simplifying the circuitry and driving.

[0113] [Electrode materials] Suitable materials for the anode electrode 12 include, for example, gold, platinum, and titanium. Carbon-based materials such as conductive carbon black, carbon nanotubes, and graphene, as well as conductive metal oxides such as ITO (indium tin oxide), are also suitable. Using these materials for the anode electrode 12 can prevent electrolysis of the anode electrode 12.

[0114] There are no particular limitations on the material of the cathode electrode 13, and various conductive materials can be used. From the viewpoint of mass productivity, it is preferable to use the same material as the anode electrode 12 as the material of the cathode electrode 13. [Industrial Applicability]

[0115] The embodiments of the present invention can be widely used in tactile presentation devices that present tactile sensations through electrical stimulation. [Explanation of symbols]

[0116] 10 Tactile display unit 11 Array substrate (support) 11a Main surface of array substrate 11b board 12 Electrode for anode 13 Cathode electrode 14 1st TFT 15 2nd TFT 20 Control Unit 100, 200, 300 Tactile presentation device 210 Personal Computer (PC) 220 Head-Mounted Display (HMD) GL gate wiring SL1 First source wiring SL2 Second source wiring

Claims

1. At least one tactile presentation unit that presents tactile sensations through electrical stimulation; a control unit that controls the at least one tactile presentation unit, Each of the at least one tactile sense providing unit a support having a major surface; a plurality of anode electrodes provided on a main surface of the support and arranged in a matrix at an arrangement pitch of 1.5 mm or less; a plurality of cathode electrodes provided on the main surface of the support so as not to overlap the plurality of anode electrodes in a plan view, and arranged at an arrangement pitch equal to or greater than the arrangement pitch of the plurality of anode electrodes, each having an area larger than an area of each of the plurality of anode electrodes; Including, The control unit Each of the plurality of anode electrodes can be independently switched between a first state in which an anode potential is applied and a second state in which a floating potential is applied, and each of the plurality of cathode electrodes can be independently switched between a third state in which a cathode potential is applied and a fourth state in which a floating potential is applied; When the tactile sensation providing unit provides a tactile sensation, The control unit At least one arbitrary anode electrode among the plurality of anode electrodes is in the first state, anode-use electrodes other than the anode-use electrodes in the first state among the plurality of anode-use electrodes are in the second state, Among the plurality of cathode electrodes, at least a cathode electrode located within 1.0 mm from an anode electrode in the first state is in the fourth state, Among the plurality of cathode electrodes, cathode electrodes other than the cathode electrodes in the fourth state are in the third state, and The total area of the anode electrode in the first state and the cathode electrode in the third state is 0.7 cm ２ As described above, the tactile presentation device controls the tactile presentation unit.

2. The tactile presentation device according to claim 1 , wherein the plurality of anode electrodes are formed from gold, platinum, titanium, a carbon-based material, or a conductive metal oxide.

3. The tactile presentation device according to claim 1 , wherein the arrangement pitch of the plurality of cathode electrodes is larger than the arrangement pitch of the plurality of anode electrodes.

4. The tactile presentation device according to claim 1 , wherein the number of the plurality of cathode electrodes is equal to or less than the number of the plurality of anode electrodes.

5. The tactile presentation device according to claim 1 , wherein the number of the plurality of cathode electrodes is smaller than the number of the plurality of anode electrodes.

6. The tactile presentation device according to claim 1 , wherein each of the plurality of cathode electrodes has a shape that surrounds at least one of the plurality of anode electrodes in a plan view.

7. The tactile presentation device according to claim 6 , wherein each of the plurality of cathode electrodes has a shape that surrounds two or more of the plurality of anode electrodes in a plan view.

8. A tactile presentation device as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein the multiple cathode electrodes are arranged in a matrix.

9. The tactile presentation device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the plurality of cathode electrodes are arranged in one row and multiple columns, and each of the plurality of cathode electrodes has a shape whose longitudinal direction is defined in the column direction.

10. A tactile presentation device as described in claim 1 or 2, wherein each of the at least one tactile presentation unit presents tactile sensation to the pad of the fingertip of one finger by electrical stimulation.

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