Combined Operation Switch

Abstract

This complex operation switch comprises: a stem that is capable of moving in a horizontal direction by a sliding operation and moving downward by a pushing operation; a first switch and a second switch that are disposed side by side in the horizontal direction; a plate-shaped pressing member that presses the first switch as a result of moving downward by being pressed by the stem due to the stem moving downward; and a cam member that moves downward when pressed by the stem, which is moving in the horizontal direction, and that presses the second switch.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a multiple operation switch. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 listed below discloses a slide switch with a push switch, which includes a slide mechanism with a slide contact piece and a push mechanism with a dish-shaped movable contact piece.

[0003] Patent Document 2 listed below discloses a slide switch with a push mechanism that includes a slider that is slidable in the left-right direction and a push rod that is movable in a direction perpendicular to the sliding direction of the slider. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2009-134952 [Patent Document 2] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 5-21764 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, it is difficult to achieve a thinner thickness in the push operation direction and a narrower width in the slide operation direction with the techniques of Patent Documents 1 and 2. For this reason, it is difficult to use the techniques of Patent Documents 1 and 2 in thin devices (such as smartphones). [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A composite operation switch according to one embodiment comprises a stem that can be moved horizontally by a slide operation and moved downward by a push operation, a first switch and a second switch arranged side by side in the horizontal direction, a plate-shaped pressing member that is pressed by the stem as the stem moves downward, thereby moving downward and pressing the first switch, and a cam member that is pressed by the stem as the stem moves horizontally, thereby moving downward and pressing the second switch. [Effects of the Invention]

[0007] According to one embodiment, it is possible to provide a composite operation switch that can be made thinner in the push operation direction and narrower in the slide operation direction. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an external perspective view of a composite operation switch according to a first embodiment; [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a combined operation switch according to a first embodiment; [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is an exploded perspective view of a combined operation switch according to a first embodiment; [Figure 4] 1 is a perspective cross-sectional view of a composite operation switch according to a first embodiment; [Figure 5] FIG. 1 is an external perspective view of a portion of a combined operation switch according to a first embodiment; [Figure 6] 1 is a side view of the combined operation switch (in a non-operated state) according to the first embodiment; [Figure 7] 1 is a side view of the combined operation switch (in a push operation state) according to the first embodiment; [Figure 8] 1 is a side view of the combined operation switch (slide operation state) according to the first embodiment; [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is an external perspective view of a combined operation switch according to a second embodiment; [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of a combined operation switch according to a second embodiment; [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of a combined operation switch according to a second embodiment; [Figure 12]FIG. 10 is a perspective cross-sectional view of a combined operation switch according to a second embodiment; [Figure 13] FIG. 10 is an external perspective view of a portion of the combined operation switch according to the second embodiment; [Figure 14] 10 is a side view of the combined operation switch (in a non-operated state) according to the second embodiment; [Figure 15] 10 is a side view of the combined operation switch according to the second embodiment (first push operation state); [Figure 16] 10 is a side view of the combined operation switch according to the second embodiment (second push operation state); [Figure 17] 10 is a side view of the combined operation switch (slide operation state) according to the second embodiment; [Figure 18] 10 is a side view of the combined operation switch according to the second embodiment (second push operation state); [Figure 19] FIG. 10 is an external perspective view of a composite operation switch according to a third embodiment; [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of a combined operation switch according to a third embodiment; [Figure 21] FIG. 10 is an exploded perspective view of a combined operation switch according to a third embodiment; [Figure 22] 10 is a perspective cross-sectional view of a composite operation switch according to a third embodiment; [Figure 23] FIG. 10 is an external perspective view of a portion of the composite operation switch according to the third embodiment; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] An embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following description, for convenience, the height direction of the combined operation switch 100 is referred to as the Z-axis direction, the longitudinal direction of the combined operation switch 100 as the left-right direction and X-axis direction, and the lateral direction of the combined operation switch 100 as the front-rear direction and Y-axis direction. However, the positive Z-axis direction is referred to as the upward direction, the positive X-axis direction is referred to as the upward direction, and the positive Y-axis direction is referred to as the forward direction.

[0010] [First embodiment] (Overview of the combined operation switch 100) Fig. 1 is an external perspective view of a combined operation switch 100 according to a first embodiment. The combined operation switch 100 shown in Fig. 1 is provided on the side of a smartphone or the like. As shown in Fig. 1, the combined operation switch 100 has a generally rectangular parallelepiped shape that is thin overall in the front-to-rear direction (Y-axis direction) and has a longitudinal direction in the left-to-right direction (X-axis direction).

[0011] The combined operation switch 100 has a stem 102 that partially protrudes from an opening 101A formed in the upper surface of the frame 101. The combined operation switch 100 can be slid horizontally (positive direction of the X-axis) and pushed downward (in the Z-axis direction) using the stem 102. Furthermore, the combined operation switch 100 can provide a clicking sensation to the operator when the stem 102 is slid or pushed.

[0012] (Configuration of the composite operation switch 100) 2 and 3 are exploded perspective views of the combined operation switch 100 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 4 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the combined operation switch 100 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the exterior of a portion of the combined operation switch 100 according to the first embodiment. Note that FIG. 4 shows a cross-section of the combined operation switch 100 along a cross-sectional line that passes through the center of the combined operation switch 100 and is parallel to the X-axis. Also, FIG. 5 does not show the frame 101, and shows the stem 102 as transparent.

[0013] As shown in FIG. 2, the composite operation switch 100 includes a frame 101, a stem 102, a pressing member 103, a cam member 104, a coil spring 105, a substrate 106, a first switch 107, a second switch 108, and an FPC (Flexible Printed Circuits) 109.

[0014] The frame 101 is a metal (e.g., stainless steel) member having a box shape (roughly rectangular parallelepiped) that is open on the bottom side (Z-axis negative side). The frame 101 is formed by processing a metal plate into a box shape (roughly rectangular parallelepiped) that is open on the bottom side (Z-axis negative side). The frame 101 accommodates various components (stem 102, pressing member 103, cam member 104, coil spring 105, substrate 106, first switch 107, and second switch 108). The top surface of the frame 101 is formed with a rectangular opening 101A whose longitudinal direction is the left-right direction (X-axis direction) when viewed from above (Z-axis positive direction) in a plan view.

[0015] The frame 101 has multiple engagement claws 101B on the lower edge of each of its front (Y-axis positive) and rear (Y-axis negative) sides. Each of the multiple engagement claws 101B is bent inward at a right angle to engage with the bottom surface of the substrate 106 placed in an opening on the lower side (Z-axis negative side) of the frame 101. In this way, the frame 101 is fixed to the substrate 106.

[0016] The stem 102 is a resin member that is slid and pushed by an operator and has a base portion 102A and an operating portion 102B.

[0017] Base 102A is provided movably in the left-right direction (X-axis direction) and the up-down direction (Z-axis direction) inside frame 101. Base 102A has a generally rectangular prism shape extending in the left-right direction (X-axis direction).

[0018] The operation unit 102B is provided to protrude upward (in the positive direction of the Z axis) from the upper surface of the base 102A. The operation unit 102B has a wall shape that extends in the left-right direction (in the direction of the X axis). The operation unit 102B passes through the opening 101A of the frame 101 and protrudes upward (in the positive direction of the Z axis) beyond the opening 101A of the frame 101. This allows the operation unit 102B to be slid and pushed by the operator.

[0019] Furthermore, a recess 102C is formed in a portion of the bottom surface of operation unit 102B on the negative side of the X axis. Coil spring 105 is housed in recess 102C. Recess 102C has a spatial shape that follows the outer shape of coil spring 105. That is, recess 102C has a rectangular shape with its longitudinal direction extending in the left-right direction (X axis direction) when viewed in a plan view from below.

[0020] The stem 102 also has a slit 102D formed therein, which extends with a certain width (width in the Y-axis direction) from the end on the positive side of the X-axis toward the negative side of the X-axis. A cam member 104 is disposed within the slit 102D. A downwardly inclined surface 102E is formed inside the slit 102D (at the end on the negative side of the X-axis).

[0021] The pressing member 103 is a thin, elastic metal (e.g., stainless steel) plate-like elastic member that extends in the left-right direction (X-axis direction). The pressing member 103 is disposed below the stem 102 (Z-axis negative side). The pressing member 103 is formed by processing a metal plate.

[0022] The pressing member 103 has a pair of end portions 103A in the left-right direction (X-axis direction) that each land on the upper surface of the substrate 106. The pressing member 103 also has a horizontal flat portion 103B between the pair of end portions 103A and above the first switch 107 and the second switch 108 (on the positive side of the Z-axis).

[0023] Furthermore, a pair of inclined portions 103F provided between the pair of end portions 103A of pressing member 103 make the height position of flat portion 103B slightly higher than the height position of the pair of end portions 103A. As a result, pressing member 103 forms a gap between flat portion 103B and the upper surface of substrate 106 in which first switch 107 and second switch 108 can be placed, and flat portion 103B can be elastically deformed in the vertical direction.

[0024] An opening 103E is formed in the flat portion 103B above the second switch 108 (on the positive side in the Z-axis direction). The opening 103E has a certain width (width in the Y-axis direction) and extends to the end 103A on the positive side in the X-axis direction of the pressing member 103. The opening 103E is provided to allow the cam member 104 provided above it to pass through.

[0025] The pressing member 103 has an engagement claw 103D on the outer edge of each of the pair of end portions 103A. The engagement claw 103D is bent upward at a right angle to engage with the side surface of the frame 101. This prevents the pressing member 103 from moving left and right (in the X-axis direction) by the side surface of the frame 101.

[0026] The cam member 104 is a resin member that is placed in the slit 102D of the stem 102. The cam member 104 has a protrusion 104B that protrudes downward from the bottom surface of the rear end (the end on the positive side of the X-axis). This allows the cam member 104 to move downward until the protrusion 104B abuts against the upper surface of the substrate 106.

[0027] The cam member 104 has an upwardly inclined surface 104A at its tip (the end on the negative side of the X-axis). The inclined surface 104A faces the inclined surface 102E of the stem 102. The inclination angle of the inclined surface 104A is equal to the inclination angle of the inclined surface 102E of the stem 102. When the stem 102 slides in the positive direction of the X-axis, the inclined surface 104A is pressed in the positive direction of the X-axis by the inclined surface 102E of the stem 102, thereby generating a force that presses the cam member 104 downward (in the negative direction of the Z-axis). This downward force causes the cam member 104 to move downward (in the negative direction of the Z-axis). As a result, the cam member 104 passes through the opening 103E of the pressing member 103 and can press the second switch 108 with the pressing surface 104C, which is the bottom surface of the tip (the end on the negative side of the X-axis). As shown in FIG. 4, the rear end (the end on the positive side of the X-axis) of the cam member 104 abuts against the right wall of the frame 101, so that when pressed backward (in the positive direction of the X-axis), the cam member 104 cannot move backward (in the positive direction of the X-axis).

[0028] The coil spring 105 is an elastic member formed by spirally winding a metal wire material. The coil spring 105 has an overall cylindrical shape and is oriented such that the left-right direction (X-axis direction) is the cylindrical direction (i.e., the direction of expansion and contraction). Stem 102 The base 102A is disposed in a recess 102C formed in the bottom surface of the base 102A.

[0029] One end (the end on the X-axis positive side) of coil spring 105 is locked against movement in the X-axis positive direction by locking portion 103C provided on pressing member 103. The other end (the end on the X-axis negative side) of coil spring 105 abuts against the inner wall surface of recess 102C, thereby locking against movement in the X-axis negative direction.

[0030] As a result, the coil spring 105 Stem 102 When the slider moves in the positive direction of the X axis, one end (the end on the positive side of the X axis) remains fixed, and the other end (the end on the negative side of the X axis) moves. Stem 102 The coil spring 105 is compressed by the repulsive force generated by the compression. Stem 102 In this way, the coil spring 105 Stem 102 can be returned to its initial position.

[0031] The substrate 106 is a horizontal, flat, resin member provided at the bottom of the combined operation switch 100 (below the pressing member 103).

[0032] The first switch 107 and the second switch 108 are arranged side by side in the left-right direction (X-axis direction) on the substrate 106. The first switch 107 is arranged in the center in the left-right direction (X-axis direction) on the substrate 106. The second switch 108 is arranged to the right of the first switch 107 on the substrate 106 (on the positive side of the X-axis).

[0033] First switch 107 has a dome-shaped pressable portion 107A that protrudes upward in the center when viewed from above. First switch 107 is in a switch-off state when the top of pressable portion 107A is not pressed. When a push operation is performed using stem 102, first switch 107 presents a clicking sensation and switches to a switch-on state as the top of pressable portion 107A is pressed from above by flat portion 103B of pressing member 103.

[0034] The second switch 108 has a dome-shaped pressable portion 108A that protrudes upward in the center when viewed from above. The second switch 108 is in a switch-off state when the top of the pressable portion 108A is not pressed. When a sliding operation is performed using the stem 102, the top of the pressable portion 108A is pressed from above by the pressing surface 104C of the cam member 104, causing the second switch 108 to provide a clicking sensation and switch to a switch-on state.

[0035] The FPC 109 is a strip-shaped flexible wiring member that is drawn out from the substrate 106 to the outside. The FPC 109 is connected to the first switch 107 and the second switch 108 via the substrate 106. This allows the FPC 109 to output signals that indicate the states (switch-on state or switch-off state) of the first switch 107 and the second switch 108 to the outside. For example, the FPC 109 is formed by covering a conductor that serves as a signal transmission path with a flexible, insulating resin sheet-like member.

[0036] (Operation of the combined operation switch 100) Next, the operation of the combined operation switch 100 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 6 to 8. Fig. 6 is a side view of the combined operation switch 100 according to the first embodiment (non-operated state). Fig. 7 is a side view of the combined operation switch 100 according to the first embodiment (push operation state). Fig. 8 is a side view of the combined operation switch 100 according to the first embodiment (slide operation state). Note that Figs. 6 to 8 show the frame 101 and stem 102 in a transparent state.

[0037] 6, when the stem 102 is in the non-operated state, the stem 102 is urged upward (in the positive direction of the Z axis) by the pressing member 103 and pressed against the upper wall of the frame 101, so that the stem 102 maintains its initial height position (i.e., the position furthest to the positive side of the Z axis) without any rattle. Therefore, when the stem 102 is in the non-operated state, the first switch 107 is not pressed by the flat portion 103B of the pressing member 103, and therefore maintains the switch-off state.

[0038] 6, when the stem 102 is in a non-operated state, the stem 102 is biased in the negative X-axis direction by the coil spring 105, and therefore maintains a state in which it is in its initial slide position (i.e., the position furthest to the negative X-axis side). Therefore, when the stem 102 is in a non-operated state, the cam member 104 does not receive force from the stem 102 and maintains a state in which it is in its initial height position. As a result, when the stem 102 is in a non-operated state, the second switch 108 is not pressed by the cam member 104 and therefore maintains its switch-off state.

[0039] 7, when the stem 102 is pushed, the stem 102 moves downward (negative direction of the Z axis). As a result, the bottom pressing portion 102F of the stem 102 presses the flat portion 103B of the pressing member 103 downward, bending the pressing member 103 and pressing the top of the pressed portion 107A of the first switch 107 via the flat portion 103B of the pressing member 103. As a result, the first switch 107 provides a clicking sensation and switches to the switch-on state.

[0040] When a pushing operation is performed using the stem 102, the cam member 104 maintains its initial height position because it does not receive force from the stem 102. Therefore, when a pushing operation is performed using the stem 102, the pressed portion 108A of the second switch 108 is not pressed by the cam member 104.

[0041] Furthermore, when a push operation is performed using stem 102, bottom pressing portion 102F of stem 102 presses down flat portion 103B of pressing member 103, but since opening 103E is provided above pressed portion 108A of second switch 108 on flat portion 103B, flat portion 103B does not press pressed portion 108A of second switch 108.

[0042] Therefore, when the stem 102 is pushed, the second switch 108 remains in the switched-off state.

[0043] 8, when a sliding operation is performed using stem 102, stem 102 moves in the positive direction of the X axis. As a result, inclined surface 102E of stem 102 presses inclined surface 104A of cam member 104, and inclined surface 104A generates a force that presses cam member 104 downward. This pressing force causes cam member 104 to move downward (in the negative direction of the Z axis), pass through opening 103E of pressing member 103, and press pressable portion 108A of second switch 108. As a result, second switch 108 provides a clicking sensation and is switched to the on state.

[0044] When the stem 102 is slid, the bottom pressing portion 102F of the stem 102 simply slides on the flat portion 103B of the pressing member 103 in the positive direction of the X-axis, and therefore the flat portion 103B of the pressing member 103 only bends slightly downward. Therefore, when the stem 102 is slid, the pressed portion 107A of the first switch 107 is not pressed until it switches to the switch-on state. Therefore, when the stem 102 is slid, the first switch 107 maintains the switch-off state.

[0045] (effect) As described above, the composite operation switch 100 according to the first embodiment comprises a stem 102 that can be moved horizontally by a slide operation and moved downward by a push operation, a first switch 107 and a second switch 108 arranged side by side in the horizontal direction, a pressing member 103 that is pressed by the stem 102 as the stem 102 moves downward, thereby moving downward and pressing the first switch 107, and a cam member 104 that is pressed by the stem 102 as the stem 102 moves horizontally, thereby moving downward and pressing the second switch 108.

[0046] As a result, the composite operation switch 100 of the first embodiment converts the sliding operation of the stem 102 into a pushing operation by the cam member 104, and the sliding operation can be detected by the second switch 108 arranged horizontally next to the first switch 107, thereby making it possible to reduce the thickness in the pushing operation direction and the width in the sliding operation direction.

[0047] Furthermore, the composite operation switch 100 according to the first embodiment can use independent switches for the first switch 107 and the second switch 108, thereby improving the waterproofing effect for the contacts of each of the first switch 107 and the second switch 108.

[0048] The composite operation switch 100 according to the first embodiment is also provided with a substrate 106 that is disposed below the first switch 107 and the second switch 108 and on which the first switch 107 and the second switch 108 are mounted.

[0049] As a result, in the combined operation switch 100 according to the first embodiment, the first switch 107 and the second switch 108 can be mounted on the same board, making it possible to easily handle the first switch 107 and the second switch 108.

[0050] Moreover, the composite operation switch 100 according to the first embodiment includes a frame 101 that is combined with a substrate 106, and both ends of the pressing member 103 are held by the frame 101 and the substrate 106.

[0051] As a result, the combined operation switch 100 of the first embodiment does not require a member for fixing the pressing member 103, which prevents an increase in the number of parts and allows the combined operation switch 100 to be further miniaturized.

[0052] Furthermore, in the combined operation switch 100 according to the first embodiment, the pressing member 103 is arranged to extend horizontally above the first switch 107 and the second switch 108, and has an opening 103E in the portion above the second switch 108, and the cam member 104 passes through the opening 103E of the pressing member 103 to press the second switch 108.

[0053] As a result, in the combined operation switch 100 according to the first embodiment, by positioning the pressing member 103 so as to straddle the second switch 108, the spring length of the pressing member 103 can be increased, and the cam member 104 can press the second switch 108 without pressing the first switch 107 via the pressing member 103.

[0054] Moreover, the composite operation switch 100 according to the first embodiment includes a coil spring 105 that biases the stem 102 in the return direction of the slide operation.

[0055] As a result, in the combined operation switch 100 of the first embodiment, the coil spring 105 for returning the stem 102 can be arranged so that it expands and contracts horizontally, so that the vertical size of the combined operation switch 100 can be reduced while the spring length of the coil spring 105 can be increased.

[0056] Second Embodiment (Overview of the composite operation switch 200) Fig. 9 is an external perspective view of a combined operation switch 200 according to the second embodiment. The combined operation switch 200 shown in Fig. 9 is provided on the side of a smartphone or the like. As shown in Fig. 9, the combined operation switch 200 has a generally rectangular parallelepiped shape that is thin overall in the front-to-rear direction (Y-axis direction) and has a longitudinal direction in the left-to-right direction (X-axis direction).

[0057] The combined operation switch 200 has a stem 202 that partially protrudes from an opening 201A formed in the upper surface of the frame 201. The combined operation switch 200 is capable of performing a sliding operation in the horizontal direction (positive direction of the X-axis) using the stem 202, a first push operation downward (in the Z-axis direction) from the right end portion (end portion on the positive side of the X-axis) of the stem 202, a second push operation downward (in the Z-axis direction) from the left end portion (end portion on the negative side of the X-axis) of the stem 202, and a third push operation downward (in the Z-axis direction) from the center portion of the stem 202. Furthermore, the combined operation switch 200 can provide a clicking sensation to the operator in any of the sliding operation of the stem 202, the first push operation, the second push operation, and the third push operation.

[0058] (Configuration of the composite operation switch 200) 10 and 11 are exploded perspective views of the combined operation switch 200 according to the second embodiment. FIG. 12 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the combined operation switch 200 according to the second embodiment. FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the exterior of a portion of the combined operation switch 200 according to the second embodiment. Note that FIG. 12 shows a cross-section of the combined operation switch 200 along a cross-sectional line that passes through the center of the combined operation switch 200 and is parallel to the X-axis. Also, FIG. 13 does not show the frame 201, and shows the stem 202 as transparent.

[0059] As shown in FIG. 10, the composite operation switch 200 includes a frame 201, a stem 202, a pressing member 203, a cam member 204, a coil spring 205, a substrate 206, a first switch 207, a second switch 208, an FPC 209, and a third switch 210.

[0060] The frame 201 is a metal (e.g., stainless steel) member having a box shape (roughly rectangular parallelepiped) that is open on the bottom side (Z-axis negative side). The frame 201 is formed by processing a metal plate into a box shape (roughly rectangular parallelepiped) that is open on the bottom side (Z-axis negative side). The frame 201 accommodates various components (stem 202, pressing member 203, cam member 204, coil spring 205, substrate 206, first switch 207, second switch 208, and third switch 210) inside. The top surface of the frame 201 is formed with a rectangular opening 201A whose longitudinal direction is the left-right direction (X-axis direction) when viewed from above (Z-axis positive direction) in a plan view.

[0061] The frame 201 has a plurality of engagement claws 201B on the lower edge of each of its front (positive Y-axis) and rear (negative Y-axis) sides. Each of the engagement claws 201B is bent inward at a right angle to engage with the bottom surface of a substrate 206 placed in an opening on the lower side (negative Z-axis) of the frame 201. In this way, the frame 201 is fixed to the substrate 206.

[0062] The stem 202 is a resin member that is slid and pushed by an operator, and has a base portion 202A and an operating portion 202B.

[0063] The base 202A is provided movably in the left-right direction (X-axis direction) and the up-down direction (Z-axis direction) inside the frame 201. The base 202A has a generally rectangular prism shape extending in the left-right direction (X-axis direction).

[0064] Operation unit 202B is provided to protrude upward (in the positive direction of the Z axis) from the upper surface of base 202A. Operation unit 202B has a wall shape that extends in the left-right direction (in the direction of the X axis). Operation unit 202B passes through opening 201A of frame 201 and protrudes upward (in the positive direction of the Z axis) beyond opening 201A of frame 201. This allows the operator to perform a slide operation, a first push operation, a second push operation, and a third push operation on operation unit 202B.

[0065] Furthermore, a recess 202C is formed in a portion of the bottom surface of operation unit 202B on the negative side of the X axis. Coil spring 205 is housed in recess 202C. Recess 202C has a spatial shape that follows the outer shape of coil spring 205. That is, recess 202C has a rectangular shape with its longitudinal direction extending in the left-right direction (X axis direction) when viewed in a plan view from below.

[0066] Furthermore, a notch 202D is formed in the bottom surface of stem 202 on the X-axis positive side. A guide rib 202F extending in the left-right direction (X-axis direction) is formed within notch 202D. A cam member 204 is disposed within notch 202D. Furthermore, the inner wall surface of notch 202D on the X-axis negative side forms downwardly inclined surface 202E.

[0067] The pressing member 203 is a thin, elastic metal (e.g., stainless steel) plate-like elastic member that extends in the left-right direction (X-axis direction). The pressing member 203 is disposed below the stem 202 (Z-axis negative side). The pressing member 203 is formed by processing a metal plate.

[0068] Furthermore, pressing member 203 has horizontal flat portion 203B above first switch 207 and second switch 208 (positive side of the Z axis). Pressing member 203 also has horizontal flat portion 203G above third switch 210 (positive side of the Z axis).

[0069] The pressing member 203 has a flat portion 203B provided on one end (positive side of the X-axis) that rests on the top of the pressed portion 207A of the first switch 207, and a flat portion 203G provided on the other end (negative side of the X-axis) that rests on the top of the pressed portion 210A of the third switch 210. As a result, the pressing member 203 is supported by the first switch 207 and the third switch 210 in a horizontal position at a predetermined height.

[0070] An opening 203E is formed on the flat surface 203B above the second switch 208 (positive side in the Z-axis direction). The opening 203E has a certain width (width in the Y-axis direction) and extends in the left-right direction (X-axis direction). The opening 203E is provided to allow the cam member 204 provided above it to pass through.

[0071] The pressing member 203 has engagement claws 203D on the edges of both ends in the left-right direction (X-axis direction). The engagement claws 203D are bent upward at a right angle to engage with the side surfaces of the frame 201. This prevents the pressing member 203 from moving left-right (X-axis direction) by the side surfaces of the frame 201.

[0072] Cam member 204 is a resin member placed in cutout portion 202D of stem 202. A guide groove 204D having a certain width and extending in the left-right direction (X-axis direction) is formed on the top surface of cam member 204. Guide rib 202F formed in cutout portion 202D of stem 202 fits into guide groove 204D, and guides movement of stem 202 in the left-right direction (X-axis direction) relative to cam member 204 by sliding guide rib 202F in guide groove 204D in the left-right direction (X-axis direction).

[0073] Cam member 204 also has a protrusion 204B that protrudes downward from the bottom surface of the rear end (the end on the positive side of the X-axis). This allows cam member 204 to move downward until protrusion 204B abuts against the upper surface of substrate 206.

[0074] Cam member 204 has an upwardly inclined surface 204A at its tip (the end on the negative side of the X-axis). Inclined surface 204A faces inclined surface 202E of stem 202. The inclination angle of inclined surface 204A is equal to the inclination angle of inclined surface 202E of stem 202. When stem 202 slides in the positive direction of the X-axis, inclined surface 204A is pressed in the positive direction of the X-axis by inclined surface 202E of stem 202, thereby generating a force that presses cam member 204 downward (in the negative direction of the Z-axis). This downward force causes cam member 204 to move downward (in the negative direction of the Z-axis). As a result, cam member 204 passes through opening 203E of pressing member 203 and can press second switch 208 with pressing surface 204C, which is the bottom surface of its tip (the end on the negative side of the X-axis). In addition, when the rear end portion (the end portion on the positive side of the X-axis) of the cam member 204 is pressed backward (in the positive direction of the X-axis) by contacting the engagement claw 201B of the frame 201, the cam member 204 is unable to move backward (in the positive direction of the X-axis).

[0075] The coil spring 205 is an elastic member formed by spirally winding a metal wire material. The coil spring 205 has an overall cylindrical shape and is oriented such that the left-right direction (X-axis direction) is the cylindrical direction (i.e., the direction of expansion and contraction). Stem 202 The base 202A is disposed in a recess 202C formed in the bottom surface of the base 202A.

[0076] One end (the end on the X-axis positive side) of coil spring 205 is locked against movement in the X-axis positive direction by locking portion 203C provided on pressing member 203. The other end (the end on the X-axis negative side) of coil spring 205 abuts against the inner wall surface of recess 202C, thereby locking against movement in the X-axis negative direction.

[0077] As a result, the coil spring 205 Stem 202 When the slider moves in the positive direction of the X axis, one end (the end on the positive side of the X axis) remains fixed, and the other end (the end on the negative side of the X axis) moves. Stem 202 The coil spring 205 is compressed by the repulsive force generated by the compression. Stem 202 In this way, the coil spring 205 Stem 202 can be returned to its initial position.

[0078] The substrate 206 is a horizontal, flat, resin member provided at the bottom of the combined operation switch 200 (below the pressing member 203).

[0079] The first switch 207, the second switch 208, and the third switch 210 are arranged side by side in the left-right direction (X-axis direction) on the substrate 206. The first switch 207 is provided at one end of the substrate 206 in the left-right direction (the end on the positive side of the X-axis). The second switch 208 is provided on the substrate 206 between the first switch 207 and the third switch 210 and below the cam member 204 (the negative side of the Z-axis). The third switch 210 is provided at the other end of the substrate 206 in the left-right direction (the end on the negative side of the X-axis).

[0080] First switch 207 has a dome-shaped pressed portion 207A that protrudes upward in the center when viewed from above. First switch 207 is in a switch-off state when the top of pressed portion 207A is not pressed. When a first push operation is performed using stem 202, first switch 207 presents a click feeling and switches to a switch-on state as the top of pressed portion 207A is pressed from above by flat portion 203B of pressing member 203.

[0081] Second switch 208 has a dome-shaped pressed portion 208A that protrudes upward in the center when viewed from above. Second switch 208 is in a switch-off state when the top of pressed portion 208A is not pressed. When a sliding operation is performed using stem 202, second switch 208 presents a clicking sensation and switches to a switch-on state as the top of pressed portion 208A is pressed from above by pressing surface 204C of cam member 204.

[0082] The third switch 210 has a dome-shaped pressable portion 210A that protrudes upward in the center when viewed from above. The third switch 210 is in a switch-off state when the top of the pressable portion 210A is not pressed. When a second push operation is performed using the stem 202, the top of the pressable portion 210A is pressed from above by the flat portion 203G of the pressing member 203, causing the third switch 210 to provide a click feeling and switch to a switch-on state.

[0083] The FPC 209 is a strip-shaped flexible wiring member that is drawn out from the substrate 206 to the outside. The FPC 209 is connected to the first switch 207, the second switch 208, and the third switch 210 via the substrate 206. This allows the FPC 209 to output signals that indicate the states (switch-on state or switch-off state) of the first switch 207, the second switch 208, and the third switch 210 to the outside. For example, the FPC 209 is formed by covering conductors that serve as signal transmission paths with a flexible, insulating resin sheet-like member.

[0084] (Operation of the composite operation switch 200) Next, the operation of the combined operation switch 200 according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 14 to 18. Fig. 14 is a side view of the combined operation switch 200 according to the second embodiment (non-operated state). Fig. 15 is a side view of the combined operation switch 200 according to the second embodiment (first push operation state). Fig. 16 is a side view of the combined operation switch 200 according to the second embodiment (second push operation state). Fig. 17 is a side view of the combined operation switch 200 according to the second embodiment (slide operation state). Fig. 18 is a side view of the combined operation switch 200 according to the second embodiment (second push operation state). Note that Figs. 14 to 18 show the frame 201 and the stem 202 in a transparent state.

[0085] 14, when stem 202 is in a non-operated state, stem 202 is urged upward (in the positive direction of the Z axis) by first switch 207 and third switch 210 via pressing member 203, and is pressed against the upper wall of frame 201, so that it maintains a state in which it is at its initial height position (i.e., the position furthest toward the positive side of the Z axis) without any rattle. Therefore, when stem 202 is in a non-operated state, first switch 207 and third switch 210 are not pressed by flat surface portions 203B and 203G of pressing member 203, and therefore maintain the switch-off state.

[0086] 14, when stem 202 is in a non-operated state, stem 202 is biased in the negative X-axis direction by coil spring 205, and therefore maintains a state in which it is in its initial slide position (i.e., the position furthest to the negative X-axis side). Therefore, when stem 202 is in a non-operated state, cam member 204 receives no force from stem 202 and maintains a state in which it is in its initial height position. As a result, when stem 202 is in a non-operated state, second switch 208 is not pressed by cam member 204 and therefore maintains its switch-off state.

[0087] 15, when a first push operation is performed using stem 202, the right end (end on the X-axis positive side) of stem 202 moves downward (in the Z-axis negative direction), causing stem 202 to tilt downward to the right. As a result, bottom surface pressing portion 202H provided at the right end (end on the X-axis positive side) of the bottom surface of stem 202 presses flat portion 203B of pressing member 203 downward, causing pressing member 203 to tilt downward to the right together with stem 202, and pressing the top of pressed portion 207A of first switch 207 via flat portion 203B of pressing member 203. As a result, first switch 207 provides a clicking sensation and is switched to a switch-on state.

[0088] When the first push operation is performed by stem 202, cam member 204 maintains its initial height position because it does not receive force from stem 202. Therefore, when the first push operation is performed by stem 202, pressed portion 208A of second switch 208 is not pressed by cam member 204.

[0089] Furthermore, when the first push operation is performed by the stem 202, the flat portion 203B of the pressing member 203 also tilts downward to the right, but since an opening 203E is provided above the pressed portion 208A of the second switch 208 on the flat portion 203B, the pressed portion 208A of the second switch 208 is not pressed by the tilt of the flat portion 203B.

[0090] Therefore, when the first push operation is performed by the stem 202, the second switch 208 remains in the switched-off state.

[0091] Furthermore, when the first push operation is performed using stem 202, the height position of the left end (the end on the negative side of the X-axis) of stem 202 does not change from the initial position, and therefore pressed portion 210A of third switch 210 is not pressed by flat portion 203G of pressing member 203. Therefore, when the first push operation is performed using stem 202, third switch 210 maintains the switch-off state.

[0092] 16, when the second push operation is performed using stem 202, the left end (end on the negative X-axis side) of stem 202 moves downward (in the negative Z-axis direction), causing stem 202 to tilt downward and left. As a result, bottom surface pressing portion 202G provided at the left end (end on the negative X-axis side) of the bottom surface of stem 202 presses flat portion 203G of pressing member 203 downward, causing pressing member 203 to tilt downward and left together with stem 202, and pressing the top of pressed portion 210A of third switch 210 via flat portion 203G of pressing member 203. As a result, third switch 210 presents a clicking sensation and is switched to a switch-on state.

[0093] When the second push operation is performed by stem 202, cam member 204 maintains its initial height position because it does not receive force from stem 202. Therefore, when the second push operation is performed by stem 202, pressed portion 208A of second switch 208 is not pressed by cam member 204.

[0094] Furthermore, when a second push operation is performed by stem 202, flat portion 203B of pressing member 203 also tilts downward to the left, but since opening 203E is provided above pressed portion 208A of second switch 208 on flat portion 203B, the tilt of flat portion 203B does not press pressed portion 208A of second switch 208.

[0095] Therefore, when the second push operation is performed by the stem 202, the second switch 208 remains in the switched-off state.

[0096] Furthermore, when the second push operation is performed using stem 202, the height position of the right end (the end on the positive side of the X-axis) of stem 202 remains unchanged from the initial position, and therefore pressed portion 207A of first switch 207 is not pressed by flat portion 203B of pressing member 203. Therefore, when the second push operation is performed using stem 202, first switch 207 maintains the switch-off state.

[0097] 17, when stem 202 is slid, stem 202 moves in the positive direction of the X axis. As a result, inclined surface 202E of stem 202 presses inclined surface 204A of cam member 204, causing inclined surface 204A to generate a force pressing cam member 204 downward. Cam member 204 moves downward (in the negative direction of the Z axis) due to this pressing force, passes through opening 203E of pressing member 203, and presses pressed portion 208A of second switch 208. As a result, second switch 208 provides a clicking sensation and is switched on.

[0098] When stem 202 is slid, bottom pressing portions 202H and 202G of stem 202 simply slide in the positive direction of the X-axis on flat portions 203B and 203G of pressing member 203 while remaining at their initial height positions, and therefore the height positions of flat portions 203B and 203G of pressing member 203 do not change from their initial height positions. Therefore, when stem 202 is slid, first switch 207 and third switch 210 are not pressed by flat portions 203B and 203G, and therefore remain in the switch-off state.

[0099] As shown in FIG. 18, when a third push operation is performed on the stem 202, the stem 202 moves downward (in the negative direction of the Z axis) while maintaining the horizontal state.

[0100] As a result, bottom surface pressing portion 202H and bottom surface pressing portion 202G of stem 202 press downward flat portion 203B and flat portion 203G of pressing member 203, and simultaneously press the top of pressed portion 207A of first switch 207 and the top of pressed portion 210A of third switch 210 via flat portion 203B and flat portion 203G of pressing member 203. As a result, first switch 207 and third switch 210 simultaneously provide a clicking sensation and switch to the on state.

[0101] When the third push operation is performed by the stem 202, the guide rib 202F of the stem 202 moves downward within the guide groove 204D of the cam member 204. However, because a gap is provided in advance between the lower end of the guide rib 202F and the bottom surface of the guide groove 204D, even if the guide rib 202F moves downward by the third push operation, the guide rib 202F does not press down on the cam member 204. Therefore, the cam member 204 maintains its initial height position. Therefore, when the third push operation is performed by the stem 202, the pressed portion 208A of the second switch 208 is not pressed by the cam member 204.

[0102] Furthermore, when the third push operation is performed by the stem 202, the pressing member 203 moves downward as a whole, but since an opening 203E is provided above the pressed portion 208A of the second switch 208 on the flat portion 203B of the pressing member 203, the pressed portion 208A of the second switch 208 is not pressed by the overall downward movement of the pressing member 203.

[0103] Therefore, when the third push operation is performed by the stem 202, the second switch 208 remains in the switched-off state.

[0104] (effect) As described above, the composite operation switch 200 according to the second embodiment includes the third switch 210 arranged horizontally alongside the first switch 207 and the second switch 208, the first switch 207 being arranged below one end of the stem 202, the third switch 210 being arranged below the other end of the stem 202, the second switch 208 being arranged between the first switch 207 and the third switch 210 and below the cam member 204, the pressing member 203 being pressed from one end of the stem 202 as one end of the stem 202 moves downward, causing the pressing member 203 to move downward and press the first switch 207, and the pressing member 203 being pressed from the other end of the stem 202 as the other end of the stem 202 moves downward, causing the pressing member 203 to move downward and press the third switch 210.

[0105] As a result, the combined operation switch 200 according to the second embodiment is small overall, yet can perform a slide operation and two push operations (a first push operation and a second push operation).

[0106] Furthermore, in the combined operation switch 200 according to the second embodiment, when the horizontal center of the stem 202 is pushed (i.e., the third push operation), the pressing member 203 is pressed by the stem 202 and moves downward as a whole, thereby pressing both the first switch 207 and the third switch 210.

[0107] As a result, the combined operation switch 200 according to the second embodiment is small overall, yet can perform a slide operation and three push operations (a first push operation, a second push operation, and a third push operation).

[0108] Third Embodiment (Overview of the composite operation switch 300) Fig. 19 is an external perspective view of a combined operation switch 300 according to a third embodiment. The combined operation switch 300 shown in Fig. 19 is provided on the side of a smartphone or the like. As shown in Fig. 19, the combined operation switch 300 has a generally rectangular parallelepiped shape that is thin overall in the front-to-rear direction (Y-axis direction) and has a longitudinal direction in the left-to-right direction (X-axis direction).

[0109] The combined operation switch 300 has a stem 302 that partially protrudes from an opening 301A formed in the upper surface of the frame 301. The combined operation switch 300 is capable of performing a sliding operation using the stem 302 in the horizontal direction (the positive direction of the X-axis), a first push operation downward (in the Z-axis direction) from the right end (end on the positive side of the X-axis) of the stem 302, a second push operation downward (in the Z-axis direction) from the left end (end on the negative side of the X-axis) of the stem 302, and a third push operation downward (in the Z-axis direction) from the center of the stem 302. Furthermore, the combined operation switch 300 can provide a clicking sensation to the operator in all of the sliding operation using the stem 302, the first push operation, the second push operation, and the third push operation.

[0110] (Configuration of the composite operation switch 300) 20 and 21 are exploded perspective views of the combined operation switch 300 according to the third embodiment. FIG. 22 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the combined operation switch 300 according to the third embodiment. FIG. 23 is a perspective external view of a portion of the combined operation switch 300 according to the third embodiment. Note that FIG. 22 shows a cross-section of the combined operation switch 300 along a cross-sectional line that passes through the center of the combined operation switch 300 and is parallel to the X-axis. Also, FIG. 23 does not illustrate the frame 301, and shows the stem 302 as transparent.

[0111] As shown in FIG. 20, the composite operation switch 300 includes a frame 301, a stem 302, a pressing member 303, a cam member 304, a coil spring 305, a substrate 306, a first switch 307, a second switch 308, an FPC 309, and a third switch 310.

[0112] Frame 301 is a metal (e.g., stainless steel) member having a box shape (roughly rectangular parallelepiped) that is open on the bottom side (Z-axis negative side). Frame 301 is formed by processing a metal plate into a box shape (roughly rectangular parallelepiped) that is open on the bottom side (Z-axis negative side). The frame 301 accommodates various components (stem 302, pressing member 303, cam member 304, coil spring 305, substrate 306, first switch 307, second switch 308, and third switch 310) inside. A rectangular opening 301A is formed in the top surface of frame 301, with the longitudinal direction extending in the left-right direction (X-axis direction) when viewed from above (Z-axis positive direction) in a plan view.

[0113] Frame 301 has multiple engagement claws 301B on the lower edge of each of its front (Y-axis positive) and rear (Y-axis negative) sides. Each of the multiple engagement claws 301B is bent inward at a right angle to engage with the bottom surface of substrate 306 placed in an opening on the lower side (Z-axis negative side) of frame 301. In this way, frame 301 is fixed to substrate 306.

[0114] The stem 302 is a resin member that is slid and pushed by an operator, and has a base portion 302A and an operating portion 302B.

[0115] Base 302A is provided movably in the left-right direction (X-axis direction) and the up-down direction (Z-axis direction) inside frame 301. Base 302A has a generally rectangular prism shape extending in the left-right direction (X-axis direction).

[0116] Operation unit 302B is provided to protrude upward (in the positive direction of the Z axis) from the upper surface of base unit 302A. Operation unit 302B has a wall shape that extends in the left-right direction (in the direction of the X axis). Operation unit 302B passes through opening 301A of frame 301 and protrudes upward (in the positive direction of the Z axis) beyond opening 301A of frame 301. This allows the operator to perform a slide operation, a first push operation, a second push operation, and a third push operation with operation unit 302B.

[0117] Furthermore, a recess 302C is formed in the center of the bottom surface of operation unit 302B. Coil spring 305 is housed in recess 302C. Recess 302C has a spatial shape that follows the outer shape of coil spring 305. That is, recess 302C has a rectangular shape with its longitudinal direction extending in the left-right direction (X-axis direction) when viewed in a plan view from below.

[0118] Stem 302 is also formed with slit 302D, which extends with a certain width (width in the Y-axis direction) from the end of base 302A on the positive side of the X-axis toward the negative side of the X-axis. Cam member 304 is disposed within slit 302D. A downwardly inclined surface 302E is formed inside slit 302D (at the end on the negative side of the X-axis).

[0119] The pressing member 303 is a thin, elastic metal (e.g., stainless steel) plate-like elastic member that extends in the left-right direction (X-axis direction). The pressing member 303 is disposed below the stem 302 (Z-axis negative side). The pressing member 303 is formed by processing a metal plate.

[0120] The pressing member 303 also has a horizontal flat portion 303B above (on the positive side of the Z axis) the first switch 307 and the second switch 308. The pressing member 303 also has a horizontal flat portion 303G above (on the positive side of the Z axis) the third switch 310.

[0121] The pressing member 303 has a flat portion 303B provided on one end (positive side of the X-axis) that rests on the top of the pressed portion 307A of the first switch 307, and a flat portion 303G provided on the other end (negative side of the X-axis) that rests on the top of the pressed portion 310A of the third switch 310. As a result, the pressing member 303 is supported by the first switch 307 and the third switch 310 in a horizontal position at a predetermined height.

[0122] An opening 303E is formed on the flat surface 303B above the second switch 308 (on the positive side of the Z axis). The opening 303E has a certain width (width in the Y axis direction) and extends in the left-right direction (X axis direction). The opening 303E is provided to allow the cam member 304 provided above it to pass through.

[0123] The pressing member 303 has engagement claws 303D on the edges of both ends in the left-right direction (X-axis direction). The engagement claws 303D are bent upward at a right angle to engage with the side surfaces of the frame 301. This prevents the pressing member 303 from moving left-right (X-axis direction) by the side surfaces of the frame 301.

[0124] Cam member 304 is a resin member placed in slit 302D of stem 302. Cam member 304 has a pair of protrusions 304B that protrude downward at its rear end (the end on the positive side of the X-axis). This allows cam member 304 to move downward until the pair of protrusions 304B abut against the upper surface of substrate 306.

[0125] Cam member 304 has an upwardly inclined surface 304A at its tip (the end on the negative side of the X-axis). Inclined surface 304A faces inclined surface 302E of stem 302. The inclination angle of inclined surface 304A is equal to the inclination angle of inclined surface 302E of stem 302. When stem 302 slides in the positive direction of the X-axis, inclined surface 304A is pressed in the positive direction of the X-axis by inclined surface 302E of stem 302, thereby generating a force that presses cam member 304 downward (in the negative direction of the Z-axis). This downward force causes cam member 304 to move downward (in the negative direction of the Z-axis). As a result, cam member 304 passes through opening 303E of pressing member 303 and can press second switch 308 with pressing surface 304C, which is the bottom surface of its tip (the end on the negative side of the X-axis).

[0126] The coil spring 305 is an elastic member formed by spirally winding a metal wire material. The coil spring 305 has an overall cylindrical shape and is oriented such that the left-right direction (X-axis direction) is the cylindrical direction (i.e., the direction of expansion and contraction). Stem 302 The base 302A is disposed in a recess 302C formed in the bottom surface of the base 302A.

[0127] One end (the end on the X-axis positive side) of coil spring 305 is locked against movement in the X-axis positive direction by locking portion 303C provided on pressing member 303. The other end (the end on the X-axis negative side) of coil spring 305 abuts against the inner wall surface of recess 302C, thereby locking against movement in the X-axis negative direction.

[0128] As a result, the coil spring 305 Stem 302 When the slider moves in the positive direction of the X axis, one end (the end on the positive side of the X axis) remains fixed, and the other end (the end on the negative side of the X axis) moves. Stem 302 The coil spring 305 is compressed by the repulsive force generated by the compression. Stem 302 In this way, the coil spring 305 Stem 302 can be returned to its initial position.

[0129] The substrate 306 is a horizontal, flat, resin member provided at the bottom of the combined operation switch 300 (below the pressing member 303).

[0130] The first switch 307, the second switch 308, and the third switch 310 are arranged side by side in the left-right direction (X-axis direction) on the substrate 306. The second switch 308 is provided at one end of the substrate 306 in the left-right direction (the end on the positive side of the X-axis) and below the cam member 304 (the negative side of the Z-axis). The first switch 307 is provided on the substrate 306 between the second switch 308 and the third switch 310. The third switch 310 is provided at the other end of the substrate 306 in the left-right direction (the end on the negative side of the X-axis).

[0131] First switch 307 has dome-shaped pressable portion 307A that protrudes upward in the center when viewed from above. First switch 307 is in a switch-off state when the top of pressable portion 307A is not pressed. When a first push operation is performed using stem 302, first switch 307 presents a clicking sensation and switches to a switch-on state as the top of pressable portion 307A is pressed from above by flat portion 303B of pressing member 303.

[0132] Second switch 308 has a dome-shaped pressable portion 308A that protrudes upward in the center when viewed from above. Second switch 308 is in a switch-off state when the top of pressable portion 308A is not pressed. When a sliding operation is performed using stem 302, second switch 308 provides a clicking sensation and switches to a switch-on state as the top of pressable portion 308A is pressed from above by pressing surface 304C of cam member 304.

[0133] Third switch 310 has dome-shaped pressable portion 310A that protrudes upward in the center when viewed from above. Third switch 310 is in a switch-off state when the top of pressable portion 310A is not pressed. When a second push operation is performed using stem 302, the top of pressable portion 310A is pressed from above by flat portion 303G of pressing member 303, causing third switch 310 to provide a clicking sensation and switch to a switch-on state.

[0134] The FPC 309 is a strip-shaped flexible wiring member that is drawn out from the substrate 306 to the outside. The FPC 309 is connected to the first switch 307, the second switch 308, and the third switch 310 via the substrate 306. This allows the FPC 309 to output signals that indicate the states (switch-on state or switch-off state) of the first switch 307, the second switch 308, and the third switch 310 to the outside. For example, the FPC 309 is formed by covering conductors that serve as signal transmission paths with a flexible, insulating resin sheet-like member.

[0135] (Operation of the composite operation switch 300) Next, the operation of the combined operation switch 300 according to the third embodiment will be described.

[0136] (non-operation state) In the combined operation switch 300, when the stem 302 is in the non-operated state, the stem 302 is urged upward (in the positive direction of the Z axis) by the first switch 307 and the third switch 310 via the pressing member 303, and is pressed against the upper wall of the frame 301, so that the stem 302 maintains its initial height position (i.e., the position furthest to the positive side of the Z axis) without any rattle. Therefore, when the stem 302 is in the non-operated state, the first switch 307 and the third switch 310 are not pressed by the flat portions 303B and 303G of the pressing member 303, and therefore maintain the switch-off state.

[0137] Furthermore, in the combined operation switch 300, when the stem 302 is in a non-operated state, the stem 302 is biased in the negative X-axis direction by the coil spring 305, and therefore maintains a state in which it is in its initial slide position (i.e., the position furthest to the negative X-axis side). Therefore, when the stem 302 is in a non-operated state, the cam member 304 does not receive force from the stem 302, and maintains a state in which it is in its initial height position. As a result, when the stem 302 is in a non-operated state, the second switch 308 is not pressed by the cam member 304, and therefore maintains its switch-off state.

[0138] (First push operation) In the combined operation switch 300, when a first push operation is performed using the stem 302, the right end (end on the positive side of the X-axis) of the stem 302 moves downward (in the negative direction of the Z-axis), causing the stem 302 to tilt downward to the right. As a result, the bottom surface pressing portion 302H provided at the right end (end on the positive side of the X-axis) of the bottom surface of the stem 302 presses downward the flat portion 303B of the pressing member 303, causing the pressing member 303 to tilt downward to the right together with the stem 302, and presses the top of the pressed portion 307A of the first switch 307 via the flat portion 303B of the pressing member 303. As a result, the first switch 307 presents a clicking sensation and is switched to a switch-on state.

[0139] When the first push operation is performed by stem 302, cam member 304 maintains its initial height position because it does not receive force from stem 302. Therefore, when the first push operation is performed by stem 302, pressed portion 308A of second switch 308 is not pressed by cam member 304.

[0140] Furthermore, when the first push operation is performed by stem 302, flat portion 303B of pressing member 303 also tilts downward to the right, but since opening 303E is provided above pressed portion 308A of second switch 308 on flat portion 303B, pressed portion 308A of second switch 308 is not pressed by the tilt of flat portion 303B.

[0141] Therefore, when the first push operation is performed by the stem 302, the second switch 308 remains in the switched-off state.

[0142] Furthermore, when the first push operation is performed using stem 302, the height position of the left end (the end on the negative side of the X-axis) of stem 302 remains unchanged from the initial position, and therefore pressed portion 310A of third switch 310 is not pressed by flat portion 303G of pressing member 303. Therefore, when the first push operation is performed using stem 302, third switch 310 maintains the switch-off state.

[0143] (Second push operation) In the combined operation switch 300, when a second push operation is performed using the stem 302, the left end (the end on the negative side of the X-axis) of the stem 302 moves downward (in the negative direction of the Z-axis), causing the stem 302 to tilt downward and left. As a result, a bottom surface pressing portion 302G provided at the left end (the end on the negative side of the X-axis) of the bottom surface of the stem 302 presses downward the flat portion 303G of the pressing member 303, causing the pressing member 303 to tilt downward and left together with the stem 302, and presses the top of the pressed portion 310A of the third switch 310 via the flat portion 303G of the pressing member 303. As a result, the third switch 310 presents a clicking sensation and is switched to the switch-on state.

[0144] When the second push operation is performed by stem 302, cam member 304 maintains its initial height position because it does not receive force from stem 302. Therefore, when the second push operation is performed by stem 302, pressed portion 308A of second switch 308 is not pressed by cam member 304.

[0145] Furthermore, when a second push operation is performed using stem 302, flat portion 303B of pressing member 303 also tilts downward to the left, but since opening 303E is provided above pressed portion 308A of second switch 308 on flat portion 303B, pressed portion 308A of second switch 308 is not pressed by the tilt of flat portion 303B.

[0146] Therefore, when the second push operation is performed by the stem 302, the second switch 308 remains in the switched-off state.

[0147] Furthermore, when the second push operation is performed by the stem 302, the height position of the right end (the end on the positive side of the X-axis) of the stem 302 remains unchanged from the initial position, and therefore the pressed portion 307A of the first switch 307 is not pressed by the flat portion 303B of the pressing member 303. Therefore, when the second push operation is performed by the stem 302, the first switch 307 maintains the switch-off state.

[0148] (Slide operation) In combined operation switch 300, when stem 302 is slid, stem 302 moves in the positive direction of the X axis. As a result, inclined surface 302E of stem 302 presses inclined surface 304A of cam member 304, and inclined surface 304A generates a force that presses cam member 304 downward. Cam member 304 moves downward (in the negative direction of the Z axis) due to this pressing force, passes through opening 303E of pressing member 303, and presses pressed portion 308A of second switch 308. As a result, second switch 308 presents a clicking sensation and is switched on.

[0149] When stem 302 is slid, bottom pressing portions 302H and 302G of stem 302 simply slide in the positive direction of the X-axis on flat portions 303B and 303G of pressing member 303 while remaining at their initial height positions, and therefore the height positions of flat portions 303B and 303G of pressing member 303 do not change from their initial height positions. Therefore, when stem 302 is slid, first switch 307 and third switch 310 are not pressed by flat portions 303B and 303G, and therefore remain in the switch-off state.

[0150] (Third push operation) In the combined operation switch 300, when a third push operation is performed on the stem 302, the stem 302 moves downward (in the negative direction of the Z axis) while maintaining a horizontal state.

[0151] As a result, bottom surface pressing portion 302H and bottom surface pressing portion 302G of stem 302 press downward flat portion 303B and flat portion 303G of pressing member 303, and simultaneously press the top of pressed portion 307A of first switch 307 and the top of pressed portion 310A of third switch 310 via flat portion 303B and flat portion 303G of pressing member 303. As a result, first switch 307 and third switch 310 simultaneously provide a clicking sensation and switch to the on state.

[0152] When the third push operation is performed by the stem 302, the pressing member 303 moves downward as a whole. However, since an opening 303E is provided above the pressed portion 308A of the second switch 308 on the flat portion 303B of the pressing member 303, the pressed portion 308A of the second switch 308 is not pressed by the overall downward movement of the pressing member 303.

[0153] Therefore, when the third push operation is performed by the stem 302, the second switch 308 remains in the switched-off state.

[0154] (effect) As described above, the composite operation switch 300 according to the third embodiment includes the third switch 310 arranged horizontally alongside the first switch 307 and the second switch 308, the first switch 307 being arranged below one end of the stem 302, the third switch 310 being arranged below the other end of the stem 302, the second switch 308 being arranged outward of the first switch 307 and below the cam member 304, the pressing member 303 being pressed from one end of the stem 302 as one end of the stem 302 moves downward, causing it to move downward and press the first switch 307, and the pressing member 303 being pressed from the other end of the stem 302 as the other end of the stem 302 moves downward, causing it to move downward and press the third switch 310.

[0155] As a result, the combined operation switch 300 according to the third embodiment is small overall, yet can perform a slide operation and two push operations (a first push operation and a second push operation).

[0156] Furthermore, in the combined operation switch 300 according to the third embodiment, when the horizontal center of the stem 302 is pushed (i.e., the third push operation), the pressing member 303 is pressed by the stem 302 and moves downward as a whole, thereby pressing both the first switch 307 and the third switch 310.

[0157] As a result, the combined operation switch 300 according to the third embodiment is small overall, yet can perform a slide operation and three push operations (first push operation, second push operation, and third push operation).

[0158] Although one embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail above, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and various modifications and changes are possible within the scope of the gist of the present invention described in the claims.

[0159] This international application claims priority to Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-070181, filed on April 21, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. [Explanation of symbols]

[0160] 100, 200, 300 Combined Operation Switch 101,201,301 frames 101A,201A,301A opening 101B,201B,301B Engagement claw 102,202,302 stem 102A,202A,302A base 102B,202B,302B Operation section 102C, 202C, 302C recess 102D,302D slit 202D Notch 102E,202E,302E Slope 102F, 202G, 202H, 302G, 302H Bottom pressure part 103, 203, 303 Pressing member 103A End 103B,203B,203G,303B,303G Flat part 103C,203C,303C Locking part 103D,203D,303D Engagement claw 204D Guide groove 103E,203E,303E opening 103F Slope section 202F Guide Rib 104,204,304 Cam member 104A,204A,304A Slope 104B, 204B, 304B convex part 104C, 204C, 304C pressing surface 105,205,305 Coil springs 106,206,306 board 107,207,307 First switch 107A,207A,307A Pressed part 108,208,308 Second switch 108A,208A,308A Pressed part 109,209,309 FPC 210,310 Third switch 210A, 310A Pressurized part

Claims

1. a stem that can be moved horizontally by a sliding operation and moved downward by a pushing operation; a first switch and a second switch arranged side by side in the horizontal direction; a plate-shaped pressing member that is pressed by the stem as the stem moves downward, thereby moving downward and pressing the first switch; a cam member that is pressed by the stem as the stem moves in the horizontal direction, and moves downward to press the second switch; Equipped with The pressing member is an upper side of the first switch and the second switch, the upper side of the first switch and the second switch being provided so as to extend in the horizontal direction; an opening in a portion that will be an upper side of the second switch; The cam member is The pressing member passes through the opening and presses the second switch. A composite operation switch characterized by:

2. a substrate disposed below the first switch and the second switch, on which the first switch and the second switch are mounted; 2. The composite operation switch according to claim 1.

3. a frame coupled to the substrate; The frame and the substrate hold both ends of the pressing member.

3. The combined operation switch according to claim 2.

4. A coil spring is provided to bias the stem in the return direction of the slide operation.

4. The combined operation switch according to claim 1, wherein the switch is a switch having a first opening and a second opening.

5. A stem that can be moved horizontally by sliding and moved downward by pushing; a first switch and a second switch arranged side by side in the horizontal direction; a plate-shaped pressing member that is pressed by the stem as the stem moves downward, thereby moving downward and pressing the first switch; a cam member that is pressed by the stem as the stem moves in the horizontal direction, and moves downward to press the second switch; a third switch arranged next to the first switch and the second switch in the horizontal direction; the first switch is disposed below one end of the stem, the third switch is disposed below the other end of the stem, the second switch is disposed below the cam member, The pressing member is When the one end of the stem moves downward, the stem is pressed from the one end, causing the stem to move downward and press the first switch; When the other end of the stem moves downward, the stem is pressed by the other end, causing the stem to move downward and press the third switch. A composite operation switch characterized by:

6. The pressing member is When the central portion of the stem in the horizontal direction is pushed, the central portion is pressed by the stem and moves downward as a whole, thereby pressing both the first switch and the third switch.

6. The composite operation switch according to claim 5.

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