Vibration generating device and electronic device

Abstract

To provide a vibration generating device thinning and downsizing of which can be achieved.SOLUTION: A vibration generating device 1 includes a projection part 20, a base 10, a coil 40, a plate 30, and an elastic member 51. The base 10 is provided with the projection part 20, and is formed of a magnetic body. The coil 40 has an annular shape surrounding the projection part 20. The plate 30 is opposed to the base 10, and is formed of a magnetic body. The elastic member 51 supports the plate 30 with respect to the base 10. The plate 30 and the base 10 constitute a magnetic circuit.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a vibration generator and an electronic device, and more particularly to a vibration generator and an electronic device that generate vibrations by utilizing magnetism. [Background technology]

[0002] 2. Description of the Related Art Some vibration generating devices mounted on electronic devices generate vibrations by utilizing magnetism.

[0003] Patent Document 1 below discloses a vibration generator having a structure in which a flat magnetic plate is arranged opposite a core around which a coil is wound, the core being arranged in the center of a flat, disk-shaped magnetic material. In this vibration generator, the magnetic plate is supported by a thin elastic plate having a structure in which the central part where the magnetic plate is attached and an outer peripheral ring around the periphery are connected by a connecting part. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 5-176498 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] Incidentally, vibration generators used in, for example, electronic devices are required to be able to generate the required vibration force and to be thinner and more compact.

[0006] The present invention has been made to solve such problems, and has an object to provide a vibration generator and electronic equipment that can be made thinner or smaller. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to achieve the above object, according to one aspect of the present invention, a vibration generator includes a base, a center protrusion provided on the base and having a recess, an annular coil attached to the base, a plate made of a magnetic material, and a support member supporting the plate relative to the base. Ru bullet and a conductive member, and the center protrusion is located inside the annular coil in the radial direction. , bullets The elastic member is disposed in a recess in the center protrusion, and the elastic member is a deformable gel-like member having a restoring force.

[0008] Preferably, the outer periphery of the elastic member is in contact with the inner periphery of the center protrusion.

[0009] Preferably, an outer protrusion surrounding the coil is provided on the plate, and the outer protrusion, the coil, and the plate form a magnetic circuit.

[0010] Preferably, the base has a recess, and the center protrusion is disposed in the recess of the base.

[0011] Preferably, the elastic member is radially deformable.

[0012] According to another aspect of the present invention, an electronic device includes a housing and any one of the vibration generating devices described above.

[0013] According to these inventions, it is possible to provide a vibration generator and electronic equipment that can be made thinner or smaller. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing an electronic device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a vibration generating device. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the internal structure of the vibration generator. [Figure 4] FIG. [Figure 5]FIG. 2 is a plan view of the vibration generator. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line A1-A1 in FIG. 5. [Figure 7] FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line A2-A2 in FIG. 5. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing an elastic member according to a first modified example. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing an elastic member according to a second modified example. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing an elastic member according to a third modified example. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing an elastic member according to a fourth modified example. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing an elastic member according to a fifth modified example. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing an elastic member according to a sixth modified example. [Figure 14] 1A and 1B are diagrams illustrating a structure for attaching a vibration generating device to an electronic device. [Figure 15] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the vibration generator when a current flows through the coil. [Figure 16] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a first modified example of the mounting structure for the vibration generator. [Figure 17] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a first modified example of the mounting structure for the electromagnetic exciter. [Figure 18] FIG. 10 is a plan view showing a second modified example of the mounting structure for the electromagnetic exciter. [Figure 19] 19 is a cross-sectional view taken along line CC in FIG. 18. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing a modified example of the electronic device. [Figure 21] FIG. 10 is a plan view of a vibration generator according to a second embodiment. [Figure 22] 22 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line EE in FIG. 21. [Figure 23] FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a modified example of the second embodiment. [Figure 24] FIG. 10 is a plan view of a vibration generator according to a third embodiment. [Figure 25] 25 is a cross-sectional view taken along line GG in FIG. 24. [Figure 26] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a vibration generator according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 27] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a vibration generator according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 28] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing a vibration generator according to a sixth embodiment. [Figure 29] 13A to 13C are diagrams illustrating the structure of a vibration generator according to a sixth embodiment. [Figure 30] FIG. 22 is a perspective view showing a vibration generator according to a modified example of the sixth embodiment. [Figure 31] 13A and 13B are diagrams illustrating the structure of a vibration generator according to a modified example of the sixth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0015] Hereinafter, an electronic device including a vibration generator according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0016] The coordinates shown in the following figures are intended to indicate the orientation of the vibration generator. The X-axis direction of the coordinates is sometimes called the left-right direction (the positive direction on the X-axis as viewed from the origin is the right direction), the Y-axis direction is sometimes called the front-back direction (the positive direction on the Y-axis as viewed from the origin is the rear direction), and the Z-axis direction (the direction perpendicular to the XY plane) is sometimes called the up-down direction (the positive direction on the Z-axis as viewed from the origin is the up direction). The direction perpendicular to the Z-axis is sometimes called horizontal. Note that the terms left-right, front-back, up-down, and horizontal are used solely for the purpose of explaining the structure and operation, and have no bearing on the orientation or use of the vibration generator or electronic device in the context in which it is used.

[0017] [First embodiment]

[0018] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing an electronic device according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

[0019] 1, the electronic device 1001 includes a housing 1010, a contact member 1020, and a vibration generator 1. The electronic device 1001 is, for example, a so-called smartphone.

[0020] The contact member 1020 is, for example, a touch panel. The contact member 1020 is attached to the housing 1010.

[0021] The vibration generator 1 generates a vibration force to be transmitted to the electronic device 1001. In this embodiment, the vibration generator 1 is connected to or fixed to the contact member 1020 directly or via another member. Note that the vibration generator 1 is not limited to being connected to or fixed to the contact member 1020 directly or via another member, and may be connected to or fixed to the housing 1010 directly or via another member.

[0022] [Structure of vibration generator 1]

[0023] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the electromagnetic exciter 1. FIG. 3 is a perspective view showing the internal structure of the electromagnetic exciter 1. FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the electromagnetic exciter 1. FIG. 5 is a plan view of the electromagnetic exciter 1. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A1-A1 in FIG. 5. FIG. 7 is a cross-sectional view taken along line A2-A2 in FIG. 5.

[0024] As shown in FIG. 2, the vibration generator 1 is formed as a thin plate overall. The vibration generator 1 has a flat shape. The vibration generator 1 is small, for example, with external dimensions of about several tens of millimeters in the left-right and front-rear directions and an external diameter of about several millimeters in the up-down direction. The vibration generator 1 is roughly disk-shaped, with an external diameter of about 20 millimeters and a thickness of about 3 mm, excluding the portion where the hole 11 is provided.

[0025] As shown in FIG. 3, the electromagnetic exciter 1 includes a base 10, a plate 30, a coil 40, and an elastic member 51.

[0026] The base 10 is made of a magnetic material. The base 10 is made of, for example, metal. The base 10 is made of, for example, iron. The base 10 is formed, for example, by molding a steel plate or the like by pressing or the like. The base 10 may also be formed by machining such as cutting.

[0027] As shown in FIG. 4, the base 10 has a flange portion 15 and a recessed portion 14 recessed below the flange portion 15. The recessed portion 14 has, for example, a circular shape in a plan view. In other words, the base 10 has a thin columnar portion (a cylindrical portion having a bottom surface) that opens upward. The columnar portion is, for example, cylindrical. The upper end of the columnar portion forms a flange portion 15 that opens in a flange-like manner toward the outer periphery. In this embodiment, the flange portion 15 is wider in the left-right direction than the other portions, and a hole 11 is formed in the wider portion. As shown in FIG. 5, the hole 11 is located on both the left and right sides of the recessed portion 14 and can be used when attaching the vibration generator 1 to an electronic device 1001 or the like.

[0028] As shown in Fig. 6, the recess 14 has a bottom 14a and a side wall 14b. As shown in Fig. 4, a front portion of the side wall 14b is removed. In other words, a portion of the side wall 14b is recessed as if it were cut out.

[0029] A terminal board 19 extending forward from the bottom 14a is provided in the cut-out portion of the side wall 14b. The terminal board 19 is a protrusion that protrudes outward from the side wall 14b. The terminal board 19 is provided with terminals 19a and 19b for supplying electricity to the coil 40. The terminals 19a and 19b are formed on, for example, a flexible substrate and are bonded to the terminal board 19. Alternatively, the terminal board 19 may be omitted, and a portion of the side wall 14b or the bottom 14a may be removed, and a path for supplying electricity to the coil 40 may be provided from below or to the side of the base 10, passing through the removed portion.

[0030] In this embodiment, a recess 17 and a groove 18 are formed on the upper surface of the bottom 14a. The depth from the upper surface of the bottom 14a to the recess 17 and the groove 18 is shallower than the vertical depth of the recess 14 (the distance from the upper surface of the flange 15 to the upper surface of the bottom 14a). The recess 17 is formed in approximately the center of the recess 14. The recess 17 is formed in a shape that matches the shape of the protrusion 20, which will be described later. For example, the recess 17 is circular in a plan view. The groove 18 is formed from approximately the center of the recess 14 to the vicinity of the terminal board 19. The groove 18 extends in the front-to-rear direction from the recess 17 to the terminal board 19, with the front-to-rear direction being the longitudinal direction.

[0031] As shown in FIG. 6, the base 10 is provided with a protrusion 20. The protrusion 20 is disposed in the center of the base 10. The protrusion 20 has, for example, a columnar shape. In this embodiment, the protrusion 20 has a cylindrical shape. The position of the upper end of the protrusion 20 in the vertical direction is substantially the same as the upper surface of the flange portion 15. Note that the position of the upper end of the protrusion 20 in the vertical direction may be above or below the upper surface of the flange portion 35a.

[0032] In this embodiment, the protrusion 20 is formed separately from the main body of the base 10, which is formed of, for example, a steel plate, and is attached to the main body of the base 10. The protrusion 20 is attached to the main body of the base 10 by fitting into the depression 17. The protrusion 20 is attached to the depression 17, for example, by bonding or welding. The protrusion 20 is formed of a magnetic material, similar to the main body of the base 10. The protrusion 20 is made of, for example, metal. The protrusion 20 is made of, for example, iron. The protrusion 20 functions as the core (iron core) of an electromagnet using the coil 40.

[0033] As shown in FIG. 4, the coil 40 has a flat, annular shape. The coil 40 is a thin coil whose dimension in the direction of the winding axis is smaller than its dimension in the direction perpendicular to the direction of the winding axis. The coil 40 is an annular, flat coil formed by winding a conductor, for example. The coil 40 may be formed by slicing a wound metal foil or by stacking sheet coils. The outer shape of the coil 40 may be circular or polygonal, such as rectangular, in a plan view.

[0034] The coil 40 is wound in a ring shape so as to surround the protrusion 20. That is, the coil 40 is housed inside the recess 14. That is, the coil 40 is disposed between the outer periphery of the protrusion 20 and the inner periphery of the side wall 14b. The coil 40 is formed so that the upper surface of the coil 40 is not located above the upper surface of the flange 15, and is attached to the base 10. The coil 40 may be wound in advance into a doughnut-shaped plate and attached to the base 10 so as to fit into the recess 14, or the coil 40 may be formed on the base 10 by winding a conductor directly around the base 10 so as to surround the protrusion 20.

[0035] A gap is provided between the inner surface of the side wall portion 14b, which is the outer periphery of the base 10, and the outer peripheral side surface 41 of the coil 40. Also, a gap is provided between the outer peripheral side surface of the protrusion 20 and the inner surface 42 of the coil 40. This ensures that the base 10 and the coil 40 are insulated and non-contact with each other.

[0036] The coil 40 is, for example, a conductor wire with a diameter of 0.15 wound about 100 to 200 turns (for example, 150 turns). The specifications of the coil 40 are not limited to these and can be selected appropriately depending on the size and application of the vibration generator 1.

[0037] An end (winding end) 43a of the outer conductor of coil 40 passes through the portion where side wall portion 14b has been removed, and is drawn from inside recess 14 to the outside of base 10. An end (winding end) 43b of the inner conductor of coil 40 passes under coil 40, and is drawn to the outside of base 10 from the portion where side wall portion 14b has been removed.

[0038] In this embodiment, winding end 43b is pulled out from the inside of coil 40 to terminal plate 19 through groove 18. This prevents the conductor wire leading to winding end 43b from being pinched between the lower surface of coil 40 and the upper surface of bottom 14a, preventing stress from being applied to the conductor wire and loss of insulation. Note that to ensure insulation between coil 40 and base 10, a cylindrical insulating member may be inserted through which the conductor wire of coil 40 passes.

[0039] Winding ends 43a and 43b, which are pulled out to the outside of base 10 through the removed portion of side wall 14b, are connected to terminals 19a and 19b, respectively, by soldering or the like. By connecting external conductors to terminals 19a and 19b, electricity can be passed through coil 40 through the conductors. Terminals 19a and 19b are arranged on terminal board 19, so that external conductors can be easily connected to terminals 19a and 19b.

[0040] In this embodiment, the plate 30 has a circular plate shape parallel to a horizontal plane. The plate 30 is made of a magnetic material. The plate 30 is made of, for example, metal. The plate 30 is made of, for example, iron. The plate 30 is formed, for example, by molding a steel plate or the like by pressing or the like. The plate 30 may also be formed by machining such as cutting.

[0041] The plate 30 is disposed above the base 10 so as to face the base 10. As shown in FIG. 5, the plate 30 has approximately the same outer diameter as the outer diameter of the peripheral edge of the flange portion 15, excluding the portion where the hole 11 is provided. The plate 30 is formed to cover the flange portion 15, excluding the portion where the hole 11 is provided. As shown in FIG. 7, the lower surface of the portion near the outer periphery of the plate 30 faces the upper surface of the flange portion 15. In other words, the flange portion 15 is provided in a portion outside the outer periphery of the coil 40 of the base 10, and faces the surface of the plate 30.

[0042] 7, the plate 30 is disposed with a small gap between it and the base 10 so as to form a magnetic circuit. An elastic member 51 is disposed between the plate 30 and the base 10. Due to the elastic member 51, a certain gap is maintained between the plate 30 and the base 10 when the coil 40 is not energized. In other words, the plate 30 is positioned higher than the flange portion 15 of the base 10 by the thickness of the elastic member 51.

[0043] The elastic member 51 is, for example, a resin member having a restoring force and is deformable. The elastic member 51 supports the plate 30 relative to the base 10. The elastic member 51 is provided between the plate 30 and the base 10. In this embodiment, the elastic member 51 is disposed so as to be sandwiched between the flange portion 15 and the plate 30. That is, the elastic member 51 is disposed between the outer periphery of the base 10 located outside the coil 40 and the outer periphery of the plate 30 located outside the coil 40.

[0044] The elastic member 51 is fixed to the flange portion 15 by, for example, using an adhesive. However, the method of arranging the elastic member 51 is not limited to adhesion. The elastic member 51 may be fixed to the plate 30, or may be fixed to both the flange portion 15 and the plate 30 by adhesive or the like. The elastic member 51 does not have to be fixed to either the flange portion 15 or the plate 30.

[0045] Four elastic members 51 are provided (elastic members 51a, 51b, 51c, and 51d; hereinafter, each of these may be referred to as an elastic member 51). The four elastic members 51 are arranged in a line in the circumferential direction. The four elastic members are arranged at predetermined intervals in the circumferential direction. That is, as shown in FIG. 5 , in this embodiment, elastic member 51a is arranged to the left rear of protrusion 20. Elastic member 51b is arranged to the right rear of protrusion 20. Elastic member 51c is arranged to the right front of protrusion 20. Elastic member 51d is arranged to the left front of protrusion 20. When focusing on a certain elastic member 51, adjacent elastic members 51 in the circumferential direction are arranged at positions roughly rotated 90 degrees around protrusion 20.

[0046] The four elastic members 51 are arranged at positions spaced apart from adjacent elastic members 51 in the circumferential direction. In other words, when the electromagnetic exciter 1 is viewed from the side, there are portions between the plate 30 and the base 10 where no elastic members 51 are present.

[0047] The elastic members 51 are deformable toward the recesses 14, which are the spaces S between the plate 30 and the base 10, the spaces S between two adjacent elastic members of the four elastic members 51 in the circumferential direction, and the spaces S inside the base 10. Thus, the spaces S accommodate a part of the deformed elastic members 51, and the provision of such spaces S allows the elastic members 51 to deform toward the recesses 14.

[0048] The number of elastic members 51 is not limited to four, but may be two or three. Five or more may also be provided. As will be described later, elastic member 51 may be annular. Elastic member 51 is not limited to being disposed between flange portion 15 and plate 30, but may be disposed between the upper surface of coil 40 and plate 30, or between the upper surface of protrusion 20 and plate 30.

[0049] In this embodiment, the plate 30 and the base 10 form a magnetic circuit. The plate 30 is adjacent to the flange portion 15 at its outer periphery with a predetermined gap therebetween, and is adjacent to the protrusion 20 at its central portion with a predetermined gap therebetween. Therefore, the plate 30 and the base 10 including the protrusion 20 form a magnetic circuit. The plate 30 and the base 10 are separated by the thickness of the elastic member 51, and a magnetic gap equal to that thickness is provided in the magnetic circuit. The smaller the magnetic gap, the greater the amplitude of the plate 30 (from the viewpoint of increasing the magnetic efficiency of the magnetic circuit).

[0050] The vibration generator 1 is driven by repeatedly switching between a state in which a current flows through the coil 40 and a state in which a current does not flow through the coil 40. In other words, the electromagnet formed by the coil 40 and the base 10 is repeatedly magnetized and demagnetized, thereby allowing the vibration generator 1 to generate vibrations.

[0051] When current flows through the coil 40, the base 10 is magnetized. As a result, the upper portion of the base 10 and the flange portion 15 become magnetic poles, and the plate 30, which constitutes the magnetic circuit, is also magnetized. A relatively strong magnetic attraction force is generated between the upper portion of the base 10 and the center of the plate 30, and between the flange portion 15 and the outer periphery of the plate 30, attracting the plate 30 to the base 10. This causes the plate 30 to displace downward relative to the base 10 while compressing the elastic member 51, thereby reducing the gap between the plate 30 and the base 10. When the elastic member 51 is compressed from a state in which no current flows through the coil 40, it generates a restoring force, urging the plate 30 in a direction away from the base 10. Therefore, the maximum displacement of the plate 30 is reached when the magnetic attraction force and the restoring force of the elastic member 51 are balanced. In this embodiment, the upper portion of the base 10 forms the protrusion 20. The upper portion of the base 10 is not limited to the protrusion 20, but may be a portion located closer to the plate 30 than the bottom portion 14a of the base 10.

[0052] When the state where current flows through coil 40 changes to a state where no current flows through coil 40, the magnetization disappears, and the magnetic attractive force disappears. Then, the restoring force of elastic member 51, which has been compressed as plate 30 is displaced relative to base 10, acts on plate 30, causing plate 30 to displace upward relative to base 10. This increases the gap between plate 30 and base 10.

[0053] By repeating a state in which a current flows through the coil 40 and a state in which a current does not flow through the coil 40, the plate 30 repeatedly displaces up and down relative to the base 10. That is, the plate 30 displaces in a direction toward or away from the base 10. This allows the vibration generator 1 to generate a vibration force. Here, the direction toward or away from the base 10 may be, for example, the direction in which the plate 30 vibrates relative to the base 10, or the thickness direction of the plate 30 and the base 10.

[0054] In this embodiment, the outer periphery of the plate 30 faces the flange 15 of the base 10. Therefore, at the outer portion of the coil 40, the magnetic flux passing through the magnetic circuit is less likely to leak (magnetic resistance is reduced), and a strong magnetic attraction force is generated. This improves the efficiency of the vibration generator 1. Furthermore, the plate 30, which serves as the vibrating surface, can be enlarged by the size of the flange 15. Therefore, vibrations can be efficiently transmitted to the electronic device 1001, etc.

[0055] The elastic member 51 is disposed so as to be sandwiched between the plate 30 and the base 10. Therefore, even when a current flows through the coil 40, the plate 30 and the base 10 do not come into contact with each other. This prevents abnormal noise caused by contact between the plate 30 and the base 10 when the vibration generator 1 is operating.

[0056] When viewed from the side, there is a portion between the plate 30 and the flange 15 where the elastic member 51 is not disposed. Therefore, when the plate 30 is displaced downward relative to the base 10 and the elastic member 51 is compressed, the elastic member 51 can deform so as to expand not only in the radial direction but also in the circumferential direction. Furthermore, by changing the dimensions of the elastic member 51, such as the thickness and width, it is possible to obtain the restoring force (also called elastic force) required for the electromagnetic exciter 1. Therefore, the amount of displacement of the plate 30 relative to the strength of the magnetic attraction force can be increased. Furthermore, the space where the coil 40 is disposed is connected to the outside of the electromagnetic exciter 1 through the portion between the plate 30 and the flange 15 where the elastic member 51 is not disposed. Therefore, heat generated by the coil 40 can be effectively dissipated.

[0057] 3 and 4, a weight 30w may be placed on the upper surface of the plate 30 of the vibration generator 1. When the weight 30w is placed on the plate 30, the plate 30 is displaced together with the weight 30w, so that a stronger vibration force can be generated.

[0058] [Explanation of Modifications Regarding Elastic Members]

[0059] The elastic member used in the vibration generator is not limited to the above-described elastic member 51, and various other types of elastic members can be used. That is, the type of elastic member may be selected appropriately depending on various factors such as the size of the vibration generator, the strength of the magnetic attraction force generated by the coil, and the required vibration force.

[0060] The material of the elastic member may also be selected appropriately depending on the factors described above. Examples of elastic members that can be used include rubber, synthetic resin, gel-like materials, and resin materials such as sponges containing various types of bubbles. Metallic members, such as metal leaf springs and coil springs, can also be used as elastic members. These are just a few examples, and various elastic members that are deformable and capable of supporting the plate 30 on the base 10 can be used.

[0061] The elastic member may be made of a material containing a magnetic material. This allows the elastic member to be used as a component of the magnetic circuit together with the base and plate. This reduces magnetic flux leakage in the magnetic circuit (reducing magnetic resistance) and improves the efficiency of the electromagnetic vibration generator 1.

[0062] For example, the elastic member may have the following configuration.

[0063] FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing an elastic member according to a first modified example.

[0064] 8, the upper part shows an annular elastic member 50A. The lower part shows four elastic members 51A (51Aa, 51Ab, 51Ac, 51Ad), each shaped to form a portion of the annular elastic member 50A. The four elastic members 51A may be arranged at predetermined intervals in the circumferential direction, similar to the above-described elastic member 51. The elastic members 50A, 51A are sheet-shaped resin members having a restoring force.

[0065] A space S capable of accommodating a part of the elastic member 50A is provided inside the annular elastic member 50A.

[0066] FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing an elastic member according to a second modified example.

[0067] 9, the upper part shows an annular elastic member 50B. The lower part shows four elastic members 51B (51Ba, 51Bb, 51Bc, 51Bd), each shaped to form a part of the annular elastic member 50B. The four elastic members 51B may be arranged at predetermined intervals in the circumferential direction, similar to the above-described elastic member 51. The elastic members 50B, 51B are resin members having a circular cross section and a restoring force.

[0068] A space S capable of accommodating a portion of the elastic members 50B and 51B is provided inside the annularly configured elastic member 50B and the annularly arranged elastic members 51B. Furthermore, a space S is provided between two adjacent elastic members 51B among the four elastic members 51B.

[0069] FIG. 10 is a perspective view showing an elastic member according to a third modified example.

[0070] In FIG. 10, the upper row shows two elastic members 50C (50Ca, 50Cb), each slightly shorter than a semicircular arc. The lower row shows four elastic members 51C (51Ca, 51Cb, 51Cc, 51Cd), each shaped to form a portion of an annular elastic member. The four elastic members 51C may be arranged at predetermined intervals in the circumferential direction, similar to the above-described elastic member 51. The elastic members 50C, 51C are cylindrical, pipe-shaped resin members having a restoring force. By making them cylindrical, the amount of displacement of the plate 30 relative to the base 10 can be made larger than that of the elastic members 50B, 51B.

[0071] A space S capable of accommodating a portion of the elastic members 50C, 51C is provided inside the annular elastic members 50C, 51C. A space S is also provided between two elastic members 50C and between two adjacent elastic members 51C of the four elastic members 51C.

[0072] FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing an elastic member according to a fourth modified example.

[0073] 11 shows four elastic members 51D (51Da, 51Db, 51Dc, and 51Dd). The four elastic members 51D may be arranged at predetermined intervals in the circumferential direction, similar to the above-described elastic members 51. Each of the elastic members 51D is a spherical resin member having a restoring force.

[0074] A space S capable of accommodating a portion of the elastic member 51D is provided inside the four elastic members 51D arranged in a circle. Furthermore, a space S is provided between two adjacent elastic members 51D among the four elastic members 51D.

[0075] FIG. 12 is a perspective view showing an elastic member according to a fifth modified example.

[0076] In FIG. 12, the upper part shows an annular elastic member 50E. The lower part shows four elastic members 51E (51Ea, 51Eb, 51Ec, and 51Ed), each of which is shaped to form a portion of the annular elastic member 50E. The four elastic members 51E may be arranged at predetermined intervals in the circumferential direction, similar to the elastic member 51 described above. The elastic members 50E and 51E are sheet-shaped resin members having restoring force. The surfaces of the elastic members 50E and 51E are uneven. Specifically, the surfaces of the elastic members 50E and 51E are provided with a large number of small protrusions 55E. The provision of these protrusions 55E and other irregularities changes the way the elastic members 50E and 51E deform when compressed compared to when there are no irregularities. This allows for the vibration generated by the vibration generator 1 to be varied.

[0077] A space S capable of accommodating a portion of the elastic members 50E and 51E is provided inside the annularly configured elastic member 50E and the annularly arranged elastic members 51E. Furthermore, a space S is provided between two adjacent elastic members 51E among the four elastic members 51E.

[0078] FIG. 13 is a perspective view showing an elastic member according to a sixth modified example.

[0079] 13, the upper part shows an annular elastic member 50F. The elastic member 50F is a resin member having a restoring force. The elastic member 50F has a sheet-like annular portion 55F formed in an annular shape and a plurality of protrusions 56F protruding upward from the annular portion 55F. Each of the protrusions 56F has a rib shape extending in the radial direction of the elastic member 50F.

[0080] A space S capable of accommodating a portion of the elastic member 50F is provided inside the annular elastic member 50F. Also, a space S is provided between two adjacent protrusions 56F among the multiple protrusions 56F.

[0081] The elastic member 50F is used, for example, with the upper portions of the protrusions 56F in contact with the plate 30. When the plate 30 is displaced downward, each of the protrusions 56F is compressed in the vertical direction. The protrusions 56F are spaced apart in the circumferential direction, providing space for the protrusions 56F to deform in the circumferential direction, making each of the protrusions 56F more likely to be compressed in the vertical direction. Therefore, while using the integrally formed elastic member 50F, it is possible to increase the amount of displacement of the plate 30 relative to the strength of the magnetic attractive force, as in the case of using multiple elastic members, and it is also possible to dissipate heat generated by the coil 40.

[0082] Whether to use a ring-shaped elastic member or to arrange multiple elastic members at intervals in the circumferential direction can be selected appropriately depending on the application of the vibration generator 1. As described above, when multiple elastic members are arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction, the amount of displacement of the plate 30 relative to the strength of the magnetic attractive force can be increased, and heat generated by the coil 40 can be dissipated. On the other hand, when a ring-shaped elastic member is used, the gap between the plate 30 and the flange portion 15 can be eliminated between the inside and outside of the elastic member. This prevents problems such as foreign matter entering the inner area of ​​the elastic member and impeding the displacement of the plate 30.

[0083] [Explanation of the mounting structure of the vibration generator 1]

[0084] FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a structure for attaching the vibration generator 1 to an electronic device 1001. As shown in FIG.

[0085] 14, the detailed structure is shown in a simplified manner for the purpose of explanation, and the coil 40 is shown in a state where no current flows through it.

[0086] In electronic device 1001, force sensor 1040 (an example of a third elastic member) is disposed between contact member 1020 and housing 1010. That is, contact member 1020 is fixed to housing 1010 via force sensor 1040. When a force pressing contact member 1020 against housing 1010 is applied to contact member 1020, force sensor 1040 detects the force. Force sensor 1040 is formed of an elastic member having elasticity. Note that instead of force sensor 1040, or together with force sensor 1040, an elastic member such as a leaf spring, a coil spring, rubber, or synthetic resin may be disposed between contact member 1020 and housing 1010.

[0087] The vibration generator 1 is fixed to the contact member 1020 with the upper surface of the plate 30 facing the lower surface of the contact member 1020. The base 10 is fixed to the contact member 1020, for example, by screws 1090 inserted from the lower side of the flange portion 15 upward so as to penetrate the holes 11 and the spacers 1091, with a spacer 1091 sandwiched between the upper surface of the flange portion 15 and the contact member 1020.

[0088] A gap is provided between the lower surface of the base 10 of the exciter 1 facing the housing 1010 and the upper surface of the bottom surface of the housing 1010 facing the exciter 1.

[0089] The plate 30 can come into contact with and be separated from the contact member 1020 in the direction toward or away from the base 10, i.e., the up-down direction. In this embodiment, the upper surface of the plate 30 is in contact with the lower surface of the contact member 1020 when no current flows through the coil 40. When the plate 30 is in contact with the contact member 1020 in this manner, the elastic member 51 is compressed more than in its natural state (a state in which no force is applied to move the plate 30 toward or away from the base 10). In other words, the elastic member 51 supporting the plate 30 in contact with the contact member 1020 is deformed. In other words, the vibration generator 1 is fixed to the contact member 1020 in a state in which the plate 30 is slightly pressed against the base 10 due to contact between the plate 30 and the contact member 1020. When the vibration generating device 1 is fixed to the contact member 1020 and the plate 30 is in contact with the contact member 1020, the elastic member 51 urges the plate 30 toward the contact member 1020 in a direction away from the base 10, and the plate 30 acts on the contact member 1020.

[0090] FIG. 15 shows the electromagnetic exciter 1 when a current flows through the coil 40. As shown in FIG.

[0091] When a current flows through the coil 40, the plate 30 is displaced and moves closer to the base 10. At this time, the position of the base 10 does not change. That is, at this time, the plate 30 is separated (away) from the contact member 1020, as shown in FIG.

[0092] Thereafter, when the current flowing through the coil 40 is stopped, the magnetic attractive force disappears. Then, the restoring force of the elastic member 51 urges the plate 30 upward, and the plate 30 is displaced toward the contact member 1020. When the plate 30 is displaced until it comes into contact with the contact member 1020, the plate 30 stops in contact with the contact member 1020, and the state returns to that shown in FIG.

[0093] In this way, by repeatedly passing and stopping a current through coil 40, the state shown in Fig. 14 and the state shown in Fig. 15 are repeatedly generated. When plate 30 repeatedly moves back and forth, vibrations are generated due to the reaction force that contact member 1020 exerts on plate 30, and the vibrations are transmitted to contact member 1020. Contact member 1020 is connected to housing 1010 via force sensor 1040, which is an elastic member, so contact member 1020 is allowed to displace slightly relative to housing 1010. As the vibrations are also transmitted to housing 1010, the user of electronic device 1001 can feel the vibrations.

[0094] When the current flowing through the coil 40 is stopped and the plate 30 comes into contact with the contact member 1020, the plate 30 can be slammed into the contact member 1020 with great force. Since an impact can be generated in the contact member 1020, the user can feel a relatively distinctive sensation, such as a click.

[0095] However, the mounting structure of the electromagnetic exciter 1 is not limited to this. The electromagnetic exciter 1 can be used in various electronic devices in addition to the electronic device 1001.

[0096] For example, the vibration generator 1 may be attached to the housing side of the electronic device, rather than to the contact member side.

[0097] Fig. 16 is a perspective view showing a first modified example of the mounting structure for the electromagnetic exciter 1. Fig. 17 is a cross-sectional view showing the first modified example of the mounting structure for the electromagnetic exciter 1.

[0098] 16 and 17, electronic device 1201 is, for example, a so-called smartphone, and includes contact member 1020, a housing 1210, a force sensor 1040, and a vibration generator 1. Unlike electronic device 1001 described above, electronic device 1201 has vibration generator 1 attached to housing 1210 rather than to contact member 1020.

[0099] 17, a mounting section 1212 having a recess 1214 in the center is formed inside the housing 1010 for mounting the electromagnetic exciter 1. The mounting section 1212 is raised higher than the recess 1214 so as to support the flange 15 of the electromagnetic exciter 1. The electromagnetic exciter 1 is mounted to the mounting section 1212 by inserting a screw 1090 through the hole 11 from above, with the section of the flange 15 where the hole 11 is provided being placed on the mounting section 1212.

[0100] In this modification, the dimension from the upper surface of the mounting portion 1212 to the upper surface of the recess 1214 is slightly larger than the dimension from the lower surface of the flange portion 15 of the electromagnetic exciter 1 to the lower surface of the recess 14. Therefore, a gap is provided between the surface of the electromagnetic exciter 1 facing the housing 1210 (here, the lower surface of the recess 14) and the surface of the housing 1210 facing the electromagnetic exciter 1 (here, the upper surface of the recess 1214).

[0101] The plate 30 of the electromagnetic exciter 1 is sandwiched between the contact members 1020 with an elastic member 1205 (second elastic member) sandwiched therebetween. That is, the elastic member 1205 is provided between the plate 30 and the contact member 1020. The elastic member 1205 is connected or fixed to the plate 30 and the contact member 1020 directly or via another member such as an adhesive. The elastic member 1205 is a member with cushioning properties. The elastic member 1205 is, for example, a resin member such as rubber or synthetic resin. By providing the elastic member 1205, vibrations generated in the electromagnetic exciter 1 are slightly damped by the elastic member 1205 and transmitted to the contact member 1020. Furthermore, when assembling the housing 1210, the force sensor 1040, and the contact member 1020, the dimensional tolerance between the housing 1210 and the contact member 1020 becomes relatively large, but the elastic member 1205 allows for this tolerance and allows the force associated with the displacement of the plate 30 to be applied to the contact member 1020.

[0102] If necessary, the elastic member 1205 may not be provided, and the plate 30 may be connected or fixed to the contact member 1020 directly or via another member such as an adhesive.

[0103] Fig. 18 is a plan view showing a second modified example of the mounting structure for a vibration generator, and Fig. 19 is a cross-sectional view taken along line CC in Fig. 18.

[0104] 18 and 19, electronic device 1601 is, for example, a so-called tablet-type electronic computer, and includes contact member 1620, housing 1610, elastic member 1640, and vibration generator 1. Contact member 1620 is a touch panel. Elastic member 1640 is, for example, an elastic member made of rubber, synthetic resin, or the like, and is disposed between contact member 1620 and housing 1610. Elastic member 1640 is, for example, disposed so as to surround the outer periphery of contact member 1620.

[0105] As shown in Fig. 18, in electronic device 1601, electromagnetic exciter 1 is fixed to the outer periphery of contact member 1620. That is, electromagnetic exciter 1 is connected to contact member 1620 so that plate 30 contacts part of the outer periphery of contact member 1620. As shown in Fig. 19, a gap is provided between the surface of base 10 of electromagnetic exciter 1 and the inner surface of housing 1620. In Fig. 19, the internal structure of electromagnetic exciter 1 is not shown.

[0106] In this way, even if the vibration generator 1 is fixed to the outer periphery of the contact member 1620, the vibrations generated by the vibration generator 1 can be transmitted to the contact member 1620, and the vibration generator 1 can be used.

[0107] FIG. 20 is a perspective view showing a modified example of the electronic device.

[0108] As shown in FIG. 20 , electronic device 1401 is, for example, a steering wheel of an automobile. Electronic device 1401 has three spokes 1407 connecting hub 1405 and steering wheel 1403, each of which has a contact member 1420. Each contact member 1420 is, for example, an operation input unit having a plurality of operation switches for selecting and adjusting various functions of the automobile. Vibration generators 1 are attached to the back of each contact member 1420. By using vibration generators 1, when the operation switch of each contact member 1420 is operated, vibrations corresponding to the operation can be generated, providing the user with feedback about the operation.

[0109] As described above, according to the first embodiment, the vibration generator 1 has a thin structure including the base 10, the coil 40, the plate 30, and the elastic member 51. This allows the vibration generator 1, which has a relatively large vibrating surface, to be miniaturized. In the vibration generator 1, the base 10 and the plate 30 form a magnetic circuit, allowing efficient generation of large vibrations. The base 10 is provided with a flange 15, and the plate 30 is provided facing the flange 15. This reduces magnetic flux leakage between the flange 15, which serves as a magnetic pole, and the plate 30 (reducing magnetic resistance), allowing for the generation of larger vibrations.

[0110] A plurality of elastic members 51 having equal vertical dimensions (thickness) are disposed between the plate 30 and the base 10. Therefore, the plate 30 can be displaced while maintaining a horizontal position.

[0111] [Second embodiment]

[0112] The basic configuration of the vibration generator in the second embodiment is the same as that in the first embodiment, and therefore the description will not be repeated here. Components that are substantially similar in shape or function to those described in the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof may be omitted. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in the manner in which the elastic members are arranged and the configuration of the base.

[0113] Fig. 21 is a plan view of a vibration generator 101 according to the second embodiment, and Fig. 22 is a cross-sectional view taken along line EE in Fig. 21.

[0114] 21, the plate 30 is omitted in order to explain the internal structure of the electromagnetic exciter 101. That is, components that are hidden by the plate 30 in the plan view of the electromagnetic exciter 101 are shown with solid lines in FIG.

[0115] As shown in FIGS. 21 and 22, the electromagnetic exciter 101 includes a base 110, a plate 30, a coil 40, and elastic members 151 (151a, 151b, 151c, 151d, and 151m).

[0116] In the second embodiment, a center protrusion 120 and an outer protrusion 125 are attached to the base 110. The center protrusion 120, like the protrusion 20 of the first embodiment, is disposed in a depression 17 in the center of the recess 14 of the base 110. The outer protrusion 125 is an annular member. The outer protrusion 125 is formed and disposed outside the outer periphery of the coil 40 so as to surround the outer periphery of the coil 40. An annular depression 117b to which the outer protrusion 125 is fixed is formed in the bottom 14a of the recess 14 of the base 110. Like the protrusion 20, the center protrusion 120 and the outer protrusion 125 are formed of a magnetic material. For example, the center protrusion 120 and the outer protrusion 125 are made of iron. When a current flows through the coil 40, the base 110 becomes magnetized, and the upper parts of the center protrusion 120 and the outer protrusion 125 become magnetic poles.

[0117] The center protrusion 120 and the outer protrusion 125 are formed so that their respective upper surfaces are at the same height as the upper surface of the base 110. The plate 30 is disposed so that the outer periphery of the plate 30 faces the upper surface of the outer protrusion 125. Note that the base 110 does not have the wide flange 15 disposed to surround the outer periphery of the recess 14 as in the first embodiment, and only the portions on both the left and right sides of the recess 14 where the hole 11 is provided are widened in a flange-like shape.

[0118] A recess 120a is formed in the center of the upper surface of the center protrusion 120, in which an elastic member 151m (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as the center elastic member 151m) is disposed. Furthermore, four recesses 126 are formed in the outer protrusion 125, in which elastic members 151a, 151b, 151d, and 151d (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as the outer elastic member 151) are disposed. In the second embodiment, the outer elastic members 151 are arranged at approximately equal intervals in the circumferential direction, similar to the elastic members 51 in the first embodiment. The depths of the recesses 120a and 126 are, for example, uniform, but are not limited thereto, and the depth of the recess 120a and the depth of the recess 126 may be different.

[0119] In the base 110, a coil placement section 116 that rises slightly upward is provided between the recess 17 in which the center protrusion 120 is disposed and the recess 117b in which the outer protrusion 125 is disposed. The coil 40 is disposed above the coil placement section 116. This allows the volume of the coil 40 to be reduced as necessary while providing a vibration generator 1 with a constant vibration surface size. Furthermore, in the magnetic circuit formed by the base 110 and the plate 30, saturation of magnetic flux at the bottom 14a can be prevented. The coil placement section 116 may be provided to adjust the top surfaces of the coil 40 and the center protrusion 120 to be at the same height.

[0120] An insulating film (resin film) 145 is disposed on the upper surface of the coil 40. Furthermore, an insulating film (resin film) 146 is disposed on the lower surface of the coil 40 between the coil placement section 116. The insulating films (resin films) 145, 146 are, for example, insulating resin members. This ensures reliable insulation between the coil 40 and the base 110 and between the coil 40 and the plate 30.

[0121] In the second embodiment, the base 110 has a center convex portion 120 and an outer convex portion 125, and the outer periphery of the plate 30 is disposed so as to face the upper surface of the outer convex portion 125. Therefore, a magnetic circuit is formed by the plate 30, the center convex portion 120 of the base 110, the outer convex portion 125, and the bottom portion 14a. Therefore, the electromagnetic exciter 101 can function in the same manner as in the first embodiment. The electromagnetic exciter 101 in the second embodiment can be used in various electronic devices, similar to the first embodiment.

[0122] Since a relatively wide outer protrusion 125 can be used, the diameter of the plate 30 can be increased accordingly, thereby increasing the vibration surface and improving the efficiency of the vibration generator 101.

[0123] Furthermore, since the recesses 120a, 126 are formed in the center protrusion 120 and the outer protrusion 125, the distance between the plate 30 and the upper surface of the base 110 can be reduced, and the vertical height of the elastic member 151 can be increased. When the plate 30 is displaced toward the base 110 to compress the elastic member 151, the greater the amount of displacement of the plate 30, the greater the degree to which the force generated by the elastic member 151 resisting this displacement increases, but this degree decreases as the vertical length of the elastic member 151 in its natural state increases. Therefore, when a current flows through the coil 40, the magnitude of the magnetic attractive force acting between the plate 30 and the base 110 can be increased, and the elastic member 151 can be more easily compressed.

[0124] The center elastic member 151m is deformed and compressed while expanding in the radial direction as the plate 30 is displaced downward relative to the base 110. Therefore, the plate 30 is stably supported at the center of the plate 30, and therefore the plate 30 is less likely to displace in the horizontal direction when the plate 30 repeatedly displaces up and down. Therefore, vibrations can be generated stably.

[0125] FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating a modified example of the second embodiment.

[0126] As shown in Fig. 23, the electromagnetic exciter 201 has a base 210, a plate 30, a coil 40, and elastic members 151b and 151d. The electromagnetic exciter 201 differs from the electromagnetic exciter 1 according to the second embodiment mainly in that it does not have a center elastic member 151m and a coil arrangement section 116. Note that Fig. 23 shows a cross section passing through elastic members 151b and 151d of the multiple elastic members 151.

[0127] The base 210 includes a protrusion 20, an outer protrusion 125, and a spacer 228. The protrusion 20 is disposed in a recess 17 in the bottom 14a of the recess 14. The outer protrusion 125 is disposed in an annular recess 117b formed in the bottom 14a. The spacer 228 is disposed on the bottom 14a between the protrusion 20 and the outer protrusion 125. The spacer 228 has a ring shape with an outer diameter slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the outer protrusion 125 and an inner diameter slightly larger than the outer diameter of the protrusion 20. Like the protrusion 20 and the outer protrusion 125, the spacer 228 is made of a magnetic material. For example, the spacer 228 is made of iron. By forming the spacer 228 from a magnetic material, the magnetic efficiency of the magnetic circuit is improved, thereby increasing the amplitude of vibration generated by the vibration generator 1. The coil 40 and insulating films 145, 146 are disposed on the spacer 228. The spacer 228 may be made of a non-magnetic material such as resin. An insulating material may be used as the spacer 228, so that the insulation of the coil 40 can be ensured more reliably.

[0128] In the electromagnetic exciter 201, a magnetic circuit is also formed by the plate 30, the convex portion 20 of the base 210, the outer convex portion 125, and the bottom portion 14a. Therefore, the electromagnetic exciter 201 can function in the same manner as in the second embodiment. Although the electromagnetic exciter 201 does not have a center elastic member 151m, the provision of other elastic members 151 allows the electromagnetic exciter 201 to function. The center elastic member 151m may be provided to more stably displace the plate 30 in the vertical direction.

[0129] [Third embodiment]

[0130] 24 is a plan view of a vibration generator 401 according to the third embodiment, and FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view taken along line GG in FIG.

[0131] 24 and 25, the electromagnetic exciter 401 includes a base 410, a plate 430, a coil 40, and elastic members 151 (151a, 151b, 151c, 151d, 151m). The coil 40, the insulating films 145 and 146 disposed above and below the coil 40, and the elastic member 151 are the same as those in the second embodiment, and therefore will not be described here.

[0132] In the third embodiment, the base 410 includes a core 420 and a bottom plate 411 .

[0133] The core 420 is made of a magnetic material. The core 420 is made of, for example, iron. The core 420 has, for example, a cylindrical shape as a whole. The core 420 has a groove 428 recessed downward from the top surface. This provides a center protrusion 421 and an outer protrusion 425 that protrude upward when viewed from the groove 428. In other words, the center protrusion 421 and the outer protrusion 425 are formed from a single member.

[0134] The coil 40 is disposed inside the groove 428 together with the insulating films 145, 146. In the vibration generator 401, the center protrusion 421 and the outer protrusion 425 play the same role as the center protrusion 120 and the outer protrusion 125 in the second embodiment. That is, as current flows through the coil 40, the core 420 becomes excited, and the upper part of the center protrusion 421 and the upper part of the outer protrusion 425 each become a magnetic pole.

[0135] Bottom plate 411 is, for example, a plate-like member that is roughly square in plan view. The portion where core 420 is disposed is recessed from the surrounding area to form recess 414. Core 420 is disposed in recess 414. A protrusion 419 where a terminal (not shown) is disposed is formed in the front of bottom plate 411. For example, a through-hole or cutout (not shown) that penetrates between groove 428 of core 420 and the outer surface of core 420 is provided in a part of the lower surface or side surface of groove 428 of core 420, and the conducting wire of coil 40 is led to protrusion 419 through the through-hole or cutout.

[0136] The bottom plate 411 may be made of a magnetic material such as iron, or may be made of other materials such as resin. By making the bottom plate 411 of a magnetic material, the magnetic efficiency of the magnetic circuit is improved, and the amplitude of the vibration generated by the vibration generator 1 can be increased. The bottom plate 411 may also be, for example, a circuit board. The bottom plate 411 does not necessarily have to be provided with the recess 414 or the protrusion 419.

[0137] The elastic member 151 is disposed on the upper surface of the center convex portion 421 and the upper surface of the outer convex portion 425. A disk-shaped plate 430 is disposed on the elastic member 151. This forms a magnetic circuit with the plate 430 and the core 420 having the center convex portion 421 and the outer convex portion 425. The thickness of the core 420 in the vertical direction at the portion where the groove portion 428 is provided is ensured to be relatively large. Therefore, magnetic flux saturation is less likely to occur in the magnetic circuit.

[0138] Note that rod-shaped support members 461 are provided at the corners of the bottom plate 411, with the vertical direction being the longitudinal direction. Furthermore, a protrusion 462 that protrudes upward is provided on the upper surface of the plate 430. A ring-shaped rubber member 465 is hung between the support member 461 and the protrusion 462. This forms a holding structure 460 that holds the plate 430 on the base 410. The holding structures 460 are provided, for example, at the right front, right rear, left front, and left rear of the electromagnetic exciter 401. This prevents the plate 430 from falling off, and allows the electromagnetic exciter 401 to be used for a variety of purposes and in a variety of positions.

[0139] In the third embodiment, a magnetic circuit is also formed by a plate 430 and a core 420 having a center convex portion 421 and an outer convex portion 425. Therefore, the electromagnetic exciter 401 can function in the same manner as in the first embodiment. The electromagnetic exciter 401 in the third embodiment can be used in various electronic devices, as in the first embodiment.

[0140] [Fourth embodiment]

[0141] The basic configuration of the electromagnetic exciter in the fourth embodiment is the same as that in the first embodiment, and therefore the description will not be repeated here. Components that are substantially similar in shape or function to those described in the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and the description thereof may be omitted.

[0142] FIG. 26 is a cross-sectional view of a vibration generator 601 according to the fourth embodiment.

[0143] As shown in FIG. 26, the electromagnetic exciter 601 has a base 10, a plate 630, a coil 40, and elastic members 51 (51a, 51b). As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, a plurality of elastic members 51 are arranged in a line in the circumferential direction on the flange portion 15. A protrusion 635 is provided on the surface of the plate 630 facing the base 10. The protrusion 635 is arranged to face the convex portion 620 of the base 10. The vertical height of the convex portion 620 is reduced by the amount that the protrusion 635 protrudes downward.

[0144] In the fourth embodiment, a magnetic circuit is also formed by the protrusion 635 and outer periphery of the plate 630, and the convex portion 620, bottom portion 14a, and flange portion 15 of the base 10. Therefore, the vibration generator 601 can function in the same manner as in the first embodiment. The protrusion 635 of the plate 630 also serves as a weight. That is, the plate 630 is provided with the protrusion 635 as a weight, and the plate 630 is relatively heavy, so that a greater vibration force can be generated.

[0145] The weight may be disposed on a surface other than the lower surface of the plate 630. Furthermore, a weight configured as a separate member from the plate 630 may be attached to the plate 630.

[0146] 26 is flush with the upper surface of the base portion 15. Increasing the thickness of the coil 40 in this way can increase the magnetic attraction force. However, this is not limiting, and the upper surface of the coil 40 may be flush with the upper surface of the protrusion 620.

[0147] [Fifth embodiment]

[0148] The basic configuration of the electromagnetic exciter in the fifth embodiment is the same as that in the first embodiment, and therefore the description will not be repeated here. Components that are substantially similar in shape or function to those described in the first embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and the description thereof may be omitted.

[0149] FIG. 27 is a cross-sectional view of a vibration generator 701 according to the fourth embodiment.

[0150] As shown in FIG. 27, the electromagnetic exciter 701 includes a base 710, a plate 730, a coil 40, and elastic members 751 (751a, 751b).

[0151] Plate 730 has a structure in which its outer peripheral end 732 is bent. That is, outer peripheral end 732 is bent from top surface portion 731 toward coil 40. Outer peripheral end 732 is bent downward from top surface portion 731, which is a horizontal portion.

[0152] In this embodiment, the outer peripheral end 732 of the plate 730 is located inside the outer peripheral end of the base 710. Specifically, the outer peripheral end 732 is located inside the outer peripheral end of the recess 14 of the base 710, i.e., the side wall 14b. The plate 730 is attached to the base 710 so that the outer peripheral end 732 fits into the recess 14 of the base 710. The outer peripheral end 732 fits between the outer peripheral side surface of the coil 40 and the side wall 14b of the base 710. An elastic member 751 is disposed between the lower end of the outer peripheral end 732 and the upper surface of the bottom 14a of the recess 14 of the base 710. The elastic member 751 supports the plate 730 relative to the base 710, similar to the elastic member 51 in the first embodiment.

[0153] In the fifth embodiment, the plate 730 and the base 710 form a magnetic circuit. Therefore, the electromagnetic exciter 701 can function in the same manner as in the first embodiment. Because the outer peripheral edge 732 of the plate 730 is close to the bottom 14a and the side wall 14b of the base 710, magnetic flux leakage between the plate 730 and the base 710 is reduced (magnetic resistance is reduced). Therefore, the efficiency of the electromagnetic exciter 701 can be improved.

[0154] [Sixth embodiment]

[0155] Fig. 28 is a perspective view showing a vibration generator 801 according to the sixth embodiment, and Fig. 29 is a diagram illustrating the structure of the vibration generator 801 according to the sixth embodiment.

[0156] 28 and 29, the electromagnetic exciter 801 has an overall rectangular parallelepiped shape and includes a base 810, a plate 830, a coil 840, and elastic members 851 (851a, 851b).

[0157] The base 810 has flange portions 815 with holes 11 formed on both the left and right sides, and a recessed portion 814 recessed downward in the center between the flange portions 815. The recessed portion 814 has a rectangular shape that is longer in the left-right direction than in the front-to-rear direction. A core 820 is disposed in the recessed portion 814. A coil 840 is disposed around the core 820. The core 820 and the coil 840 are formed, for example, in an oval shape (including a shape formed by connecting two semicircular arcs with two line segments) that is longer in the left-right direction to match the shape of the recessed portion 814.

[0158] The plate 830 has a top surface 831, which is a horizontal portion, and two bent portions 832, which are located at the right and left ends and bent from the top surface 831 toward the coil 840. The bent portions 832 are located inside the outer circumferential edge of the base 810. Specifically, the bent portions 832 are located inside the side wall 814a of the recess 814 of the base 810. The plate 830 is attached to the base 810 such that the lower end of the bent portion 832 fits into the recess 814 of the base 810. The lower end of the bent portion 832 fits between the outer circumferential side surface of the coil 840 and the side wall 814b of the base 810. An elastic member 851 is disposed between the lower end of the bent portion 832 and the upper surface of the recess 814 of the base 810. The elastic member 851 supports the plate 830 relative to the base 810, similar to the elastic member 51 in the first embodiment.

[0159] In the sixth embodiment, the plate 830 and the base 810 form a magnetic circuit. Therefore, the electromagnetic exciter 801 can function in the same manner as in the first embodiment. The bent portion 832 of the plate 830 is close to the upper surface of the recess 814 of the base 810 and faces the side wall portion 814b, so that magnetic flux leakage between the plate 830 and the base 810 is reduced (magnetic resistance is reduced). Therefore, the efficiency of the electromagnetic exciter 801 can be improved.

[0160] Components such as the base 810 and plate 830 of the vibration generator 801 can be easily manufactured by linear bending or the like.

[0161] Fig. 30 is a perspective view showing a vibration exciter 901 according to a modification of the sixth embodiment. Fig. 31 is a diagram illustrating the structure of the vibration exciter 901 according to a modification of the sixth embodiment.

[0162] 30 and 31, the electromagnetic exciter 901 has basically the same structure as the electromagnetic exciter 801 according to the sixth embodiment. In the electromagnetic exciter 901, a flat plate 930 is used instead of the plate 830. And, instead of the elastic member 851, elastic members 951 (951a, 951b) are arranged on the upper surface of the flange 815 of the base 810. The right and left sides of the plate 930 face the flange 815. The elastic member 951 is arranged so as to be sandwiched between the right and left sides of the plate 930 and the flange 815.

[0163] In the vibration generator 901, the flange 815 of the base 810 serves as a magnetic pole, and the plate 930 and the base 810 form a magnetic circuit. Therefore, the vibration generator 901 can function in the same way as the vibration generator 801. Because both left and right sides of the plate 930 face the flange 815, magnetic flux leakage between the plate 930 and the base 810 is reduced (magnetic resistance is reduced). Therefore, the efficiency of the vibration generator 901 can be improved.

[0164] [others]

[0165] The individual features of the above-described embodiments and their variations may be combined as appropriate to configure a vibration exciter. For example, the external shape of the vibration exciter 1 shown in Fig. 18 may be a disk shape as shown in Fig. 4, or a rectangular parallelepiped shape as shown in Fig. 28, which will be described later. Furthermore, the vibration exciter 1 shown in Fig. 18 may be modified as appropriate to any of the vibration exciters 101, 201, 401, 601, 701, 801, and 901 of the second to sixth embodiments.

[0166] Examples of other members include known members such as adhesives, the elastic members described above, and resin members.

[0167] The vibration generator is not limited to the thin or small type exemplified above, and a large vibration generator having the same basic configuration may be constructed.

[0168] The vibration generator can be used in various types of electronic devices, not limited to the above-mentioned types, such as personal computers and their peripheral devices, household electronic appliances such as televisions, refrigerators, and washing machines, and electronic devices such as remote controllers for operating them, electronic devices used in transportation equipment, electronic devices used in buildings, etc.

[0169] The above-described embodiments should be considered to be illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, not by the above description, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and scope of the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0170] 1,101,201,401,601,701,801,901 Vibration generator 10,110,210,410,710,810 base 14,814 recesses 14a bottom 14b,814b Side wall part 15,815 Flange 20,820 convex part 30,630,730,830,930 plates 40,840 coils 51, 50A, 51A, 50B, 51B, 50C, 51C, 51D, 50E, 51E, 50F, 151, 751, 851, 951 Elastic member 55E protrusion 56F Protrusion 116 Coil placement section 120,421 Center convex part 120a depression 125,425 Outer convex part 126 Depression 145, 146 Insulating film (resin film) 151m center elastic member 228 Spacer 411 Bottom plate 420 cores 635 Protrusion 732 Outer edge 832 Bend 1001,1201,1401,1601 Electronic equipment 1010,1210,1407,1610 housing 1020, 1420, 1620 Contact member 1040 Force Sensor 1205 Elastic member 1640 Elastic member

Claims

1. With the base, a center protrusion having a recess provided on the base; an annular coil attached to the base; a plate formed of a magnetic material; an elastic member that supports the plate against the base, In the radial direction, the center protrusion is located inside the annular coil, The elastic member is disposed in a recess of the center protrusion, The elastic member is a deformable gel-like member having a restoring force.

2. 2. The vibration generator according to claim 1, wherein an outer periphery of the elastic member is in contact with an inner periphery of the center protrusion.

3. An outer protrusion surrounding the coil is provided on the plate, The vibration generator according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the outer protrusion, the coil, and the plate form a magnetic circuit.

4. the base includes a recess; The vibration generator according to claim 1 , wherein the center protrusion is disposed in the recess of the base.

5. The electromagnetic exciter according to claim 1 , wherein the elastic member is deformable in a radial direction.

6. An electronic device comprising a housing and the vibration generator according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

Images