Multidirectional operation switch device

Abstract

To provide a multi-directional operation switch capable of smoothly returning a slider movable in four directions to a neutral position.SOLUTION: A multidirectional operation switch device 1 includes: a slider 10 movable in four directions; four push switches 50 arranged in correspondence with the four directions in order to detect movement of the slider 10; and four push members 30 arranged between the slider 10 and the four push switches 50. The slider 10 has four side surface portions 20 intersecting with a first axis a1 or a second axis a2 along the four directions. Each of the four side surface portions 20 has an inclined region Ts inclined so as to approach a center of the slider 10. The push switch 50 has a movable unit 58 that moves to an original position by self-restoration when push is released. The push member 30 is in contact with the movable unit 58 and the side surface portions 20.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a multi-directional operation switch device that can be slid in multiple directions.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a multi-directional operation switch device that can be slid in multiple directions is known. Patent Document 1 discloses a multi-directional operation switch device including a pad movable in multiple directions, a support pin contacting the pad, and a spring that presses the support pin in the axial direction. The pad has a mortar-shaped pin receiving portion, and the tip of the support pin contacts the pin receiving portion. In this multi-directional operation switch device, the spring force is used to press the support pin against the mortar-shaped pin receiving portion, so that the pad returns to the neutral position.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] There is room for improvement in the multi-directional operation switch device described in Patent Document 1.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] A multi-directional operating switch device according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a multi-directional operating switch device that can be slid in four directions, comprising: a slider that is movable in the four directions; four push switches arranged corresponding to each of the four directions for detecting the movement of the slider; and four pressing members arranged between the slider and each of the four push switches, wherein the slider has four side portions that intersect a first or second axis along the four directions, each of the four side portions has an inclined region that slopes toward the center of the slider; the push switches have movable parts that move to their original positions by self-returning when the pressure is released; and the pressing members are in contact with the movable parts and the side portions, respectively. The four side portions include a first side portion located in a first direction among the four directions, a second side portion located in a second direction opposite to the first direction, a third side portion located in a third direction perpendicular to the first direction, and a fourth side portion located in a fourth direction opposite to the third direction. When the slider is moved in the first direction, it receives a force from the pressing member positioned in accordance with the first direction, returning it to the opposite direction from the first direction via the first side portion; a force from the pressing member positioned in accordance with the third direction, returning it to the opposite direction from the first direction via the inclined region of the third side portion; and a force from the pressing member positioned in accordance with the fourth direction, returning it to the opposite direction from the first direction via the inclined region of the fourth side portion. A multi-directional operating switch device according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a multi-directional operating switch device that can be slid in four directions, comprising: a slider that is movable in the four directions; four push switches arranged corresponding to each of the four directions for detecting the movement of the slider; and four pressing members arranged between the slider and each of the four push switches, wherein the slider has four side portions that intersect a first axis or a second axis along the four directions, each of the four side portions has an inclined region that slopes toward the center of the slider; the push switches have movable parts that move to their original positions by self-returning when the pressure is released; the pressing members are in contact with the movable parts and each of the side portions, and the four push switches are a first push switch arranged corresponding to a first direction among the four directions, the first The four pressing members include a second pressing switch positioned in a direction opposite to the first direction, a third pressing switch positioned in a direction perpendicular to the first direction, and a fourth pressing switch positioned in a direction opposite to the third direction, wherein the four pressing members include a first pressing member positioned between the first pressing switch and the slider, a second pressing member positioned between the second pressing switch and the slider, a third pressing member positioned between the third pressing switch and the slider, and a fourth pressing member positioned between the fourth pressing switch and the slider, wherein when the slider is moved in the first direction, it receives a force from the first pressing member, the third pressing member and the fourth pressing member that returns it in the direction opposite to the first direction. A multi-directional operating switch device according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a multi-directional operating switch device that can be slid in four directions, comprising: a slider that is movable in the four directions; four push switches arranged corresponding to each of the four directions for detecting the movement of the slider; and four pressing members arranged between the slider and each of the four push switches, wherein the slider has four side portions that intersect a first or second axis along the four directions, each of the four side portions has an inclined region that slopes toward the center of the slider, and the push switches have a movable portion that moves to its original position when the pressure is released and it returns to its original position, and the pressing The component contacts the movable part and the side part, respectively, and further, the pressing member has a switch contact part that contacts the movable part, a slider contact part that contacts the side part, and a pivot point that serves as a pivot point when the pressing member rotates, and rotates around the pivot point by the force applied from the movable part to the switch contact part, and applies a pressing force to the side part via the slider contact part, and further has a housing that, with respect to the slider, at least a part of it is located outside the pressing member, and the housing has a guide part that contacts the slider contact part, and the slider contact part applies a pressing force to the slider while moving guided by the guide part. A multi-directional operating switch device according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a multi-directional operating switch device that can be slid in four directions, comprising: a slider that can move in the four directions; four push switches arranged corresponding to each of the four directions for detecting the movement of the slider; and four pressing members arranged between the slider and each of the four push switches, wherein the slider has four side portions that intersect a first or second axis along the four directions, and each of the four side portions has an inclined region that slopes toward the center of the slider; the push switches have movable parts that move to their original positions by self-returning when the pressure is released; the pressing members have a housing that contacts the movable parts and the side portions, and further houses the slider and the four pressing members, the pressing members have recesses that are recessed toward away from the side walls of the housing, and the housing has protrusions that are inserted into the recesses. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] According to this disclosure, it is possible to improve upon conventional multi-directional operation switch devices. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is an external perspective view of a multi-directional operation switch device according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view of a multi-directional operation switch device according to an embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 shows a cross-section of the multi-directional operation switch device according to the embodiment, when it is cut along the line III-III shown in Figure 1. [Figure 4] Figure 4 shows a cross-section of the multi-directional operation switch device according to the embodiment, when it is cut along the line IV-IV shown in Figure 1. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows the cross-section of the slider, pressing member, and housing of the multi-directional operation switch device according to the embodiment, when cut along the VV line shown in Figure 4. [Figure 6]Figure 6 is a perspective view showing the slider, pressing member, and housing of a multi-directional control switch device. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a perspective view showing the slider and pressing member of a multi-directional switch device. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a perspective view showing the pressing member and press switch of a multi-directional operation switch device. [Figure 9] Figure 9 shows the operation of the slider and pressing member of a multi-directional switch device. [Figure 10] Figure 10 shows a multi-directional operation switch device according to a modified example 1 of the embodiment. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing an example of processing operation by the control unit according to a modified example 2 of the embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0008] The embodiments will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings.

[0009] The embodiments described below are all specific examples of the present disclosure. The numerical values, shapes, materials, components, arrangement positions of components, connection configurations, steps, and the order of steps shown in the following embodiments are examples and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. Furthermore, any components in the following embodiments that are not described in an independent claim will be described as arbitrary components. In addition, in this specification, terms indicating relationships between elements such as "same" and "parallel," terms indicating the shapes of elements such as "quadrilateral" and "circular," and numerical values ​​do not represent only strict meanings, but also include a range of substantially equivalent values, for example, differences of a few percent (for example, about 10%).

[0010] (Embodiment) [Outline configuration of a multi-directional control switch device] The schematic configuration of the multi-directional operation switch device according to this embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 5.

[0011] FIG. 1 is an external perspective view of the multi-directional operation switch device 1 according to the embodiment. FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the multi-directional operation switch device 1. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view when the multi-directional operation switch device 1 is cut along the line III-III shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view when the multi-directional operation switch device 1 is cut along the line IV-IV shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view when the slider 10, the pressing member 30, and the housing 60 of the multi-directional operation switch device 1 are cut along the line V-V shown in FIG. 4.

[0012] Also, in FIGS. 1 to 10 used in the following description, coordinate axes may be exemplified. The Z-axis indicates the stacking direction in which the components of the multi-directional operation switch device 1 are stacked (for example, the direction along the axial direction of the operating body 70 when in the neutral position). Also, the X-axis direction and the Y-axis direction are directions perpendicular to each other on a plane perpendicular to the Z-axis direction.

[0013] The multi-directional operation switch device 1 shown in FIG. 1 is a switch device that can be slid in four directions. The multi-directional operation switch device 1 is, for example, a switch device provided on the steering of a vehicle. The multi-directional operation switch device 1 operates in-vehicle devices according to the operation of a user (driver). The vehicle is, for example, an automobile such as a passenger car, a bus, or a truck.

[0014] As shown in FIGS. 2 to 5, the multi-directional operation switch device 1 includes a slider 10 that can move in four directions, four pressing switches 50 arranged corresponding to each of the four directions to detect the movement of the slider 10, and four pressing members 30 arranged between the slider 10 and each of the four pressing switches 50. As shown in FIG. 5, the slider 10 has four side surfaces 20.

[0015] In the multi-directional operation switch device 1, the slider 10 moves based on an external operation input, and the force generated by the movement of the slider 10 is transmitted to the press switch 50 via the pressing member 30, turning the press switch 50 on or off. Furthermore, in the multi-directional operation switch device 1, when there is no more external operation input, the force generated by the self-returning function of the press switch 50 is transmitted to the side portion 20 of the slider 10 via the pressing member 30, returning the slider 10 to its neutral position.

[0016] In the multi-directional operation switch device 1 of this embodiment, when the slider 10 returns to the neutral position after no external input is received, the slider 10 does not return using the self-restoring force of a single push switch 50, but rather uses the self-restoring force of multiple push switches 50. This configuration allows the slider 10 to return to the neutral position smoothly. The neutral position is the position of the slider 10 before the multi-directional operation switch device 1 receives an input from a finger or the like.

[0017] The following describes the detailed configuration of the multi-directional operation switch device 1.

[0018] In the following explanation, each of the four directions will be referred to as the first direction d1, the second direction d2, the third direction d3, and the fourth direction d4.

[0019] The first direction d1 and the second direction d2 are directions along the first axis a1, which is perpendicular to axis a3 that passes through the neutral position of the slider 10 of the multi-directional switch device 1 along the Z axis, and are opposite directions to each other. The third direction d3 and the fourth direction d4 are directions along the second axis a2, which is perpendicular to both axis a3 and the first axis a1, i.e., directions perpendicular to both the first direction d1 and the second direction d2, and are opposite directions to each other. Axis a3 of the multi-directional switch device 1 is included in the neutral position of the slider 10 when viewed from a direction perpendicular to both the first axis a1 and the second axis a2.

[0020] In the following, the multi-directional operation switch device 1 may be referred to as the switch device 1. All or some of the multiple push switches may be referred to as the push switches 50. All or some of the multiple pressing members may be referred to as the pressing members 30. All or some of the multiple side parts of the slider 10 may be referred to as the side parts 20.

[0021] [Detailed configuration of a multi-directional control switch device] The detailed configuration of the multi-directional operation switch device 1 will be explained with reference to Figures 1 to 8.

[0022] As shown in Figures 2 to 5, the switch device 1 comprises a base member 80, a circuit board 81, a housing 60, an operating body 70, a slider 10, a plurality of pressing members 30, and a plurality of push switches 50. The switch device 1 also comprises a panel member 74, a rotation suppression member 75, a linear transmission member 76, and fixing members 82 and 83.

[0023] The base member 80 is a component that forms the base of the switch device 1 and is located on the bottom side of the switch device 1. The base member 80 directly or indirectly supports the components of the switch device 1 other than the base member 80.

[0024] The circuit board 81 is a board having multiple wirings and is placed on the base member 80. Multiple push switches 50 connected to the wiring of the circuit board 81 are mounted on the circuit board 81. In addition, multiple fixing members 82 for fixing each of the multiple push switches 50, and multiple fixing members 83 for fixing each of the multiple pressing members 30 are provided on the circuit board 81.

[0025] The housing 60 is provided on the base member 80 and the circuit board 81. The housing 60 has a stepped case shape. Specifically, the housing side wall portion 61, which is the side wall of the housing 60, has a first side wall portion 61h and a second side wall portion which is located outside the first side wall portion 61h and closer to the base member 80 than the first side wall portion 61h.61j and the first side wall portion 61h and the second side wall portion 61j The shoulder part that connects to 61i It has the following features.

[0026] The housing top surface 62 is stacked on one end (in this embodiment, the Z-axis positive side) of the housing side wall 61 (first side wall 61h). For example, the housing top surface 62 has an engaging portion that extends to the Z-axis negative side, and by engaging with an engaged portion provided on the housing 60, the housing top surface 62 is stacked on one end of the housing side wall 61 (first side wall 61h). In this embodiment, the housing top surface 62 is also included in the housing 60 as an example.

[0027] Multiple housing side wall portions 61 (second side wall portion 61j The other end of the (in this embodiment, the Z-axis minus side) is open and connected to the base member 80. Inside the housing 60, which is surrounded by multiple housing side walls 61 and a housing top surface 62, are the slider 10, multiple pressing members 30, multiple pressing switches 50, and a linear transmission member 76. Inside the housing 60, there is also a rotation suppression member 75 that prevents the slider 10 from rotating around axis a3.

[0028] The top surface portion 62 of the housing is arranged parallel to the first axis a1 and the second axis a2 so as to cover the slider 10. The top surface portion 62 of the housing has a through hole 62b that penetrates in the direction along axis a3.

[0029] The housing side wall portion 61 is positioned outside the pressing member 30 when viewed from the slider 10. A protrusion 61b is provided on the inside of the first side wall portion 61h of the housing side wall portion 61 to guide the movement of the pressing member 30. The protrusion 61b of the housing side wall portion 61 will be described later.

[0030] Shoulder portion of the housing side wall 61 61iA panel member 74 is positioned on top. The panel member 74 has a recessed portion 74a that is recessed in the direction along axis a3 from the top surface, and a through hole 74b that penetrates through the center of the recessed portion 74a in the direction along axis a3. The recessed portion 74a of the panel member 74 may be provided with a mark indicating the direction in which the operating body 70 can move.

[0031] The operating body 70 is composed of a disc-shaped knob 71 and a cylindrical connecting member 72. The knob 71 is a component that receives input from a finger or the like, and is positioned on a recessed portion 74a of the panel member 74. The connecting member 72 is a component for connecting the operating body 70 and the slider 10, and is attached to the slider 10 by passing through the through hole 74b of the panel member 74 and the through hole 62b of the housing top portion 62.

[0032] The operating body 70 is, for example, clearance-fitted into a mounting hole 10b provided in the slider 10. Operation inputs received from the outside to the operating body 70 are transmitted to the slider 10 via the operating body 70. If the diameter of the knob 71 is smaller than the through holes 74b and 62b, the operating body 70 and the slider 10 may be made up of a single part.

[0033] Figure 6 is a perspective view showing the slider 10, pressing member 30, and housing 60 of the multi-directional operation switch device 1. Figure 7 is a perspective view showing the slider 10 and pressing member 30 of the multi-directional operation switch device 1. Figure 6 shows the switch device 1 of Figure 1 with the operating body 70, panel member 74, and housing top surface 62 removed. Figure 7 shows the switch device 1 of Figure 6 with the housing 60 removed.

[0034] As shown in Figures 5 to 7, the slider 10 is arranged parallel to the first axis a1 and the second axis a2. The slider 10 has a top surface 11, a bottom surface 12, and a number of side surfaces 20.

[0035] The multiple side portions 20 are aligned along the first axis a1 or the second axis in four directions. a2It intersects with the other side portion. The multiple side portions 20 are composed of four side portions, having a first side portion 21, a second side portion 22, a third side portion 23, and a fourth side portion 24.

[0036] When viewed from a direction along axis a3, the first side portion 21 is located in the first direction d1 and intersects the first axis a1, and the second side portion 22 is located in the second direction d2 and intersects the first axis a1. The first side portion 21 and the second side portion 22 face away from each other. When viewed from a direction along axis a3, the third side portion 23 is located in the third direction d3 and intersects the second axis a2, and the fourth side portion 24 is located in the fourth direction d4 and intersects the second axis a2. The third side portion 23 and the fourth side portion 24 face away from each other. The corners located at both ends of each side portion 20, in other words, the corners located between two side portions 20, protrude outward.

[0037] As shown in Figure 5, the slider 10 has a rectangular shape with its four corners cut off when viewed from a direction along axis a3, and is configured to be recessed toward the center of the slider 10 from the surfaces located in each of the four directions (first direction d1, second direction d2, third direction d3, and fourth direction d4), with each side portion 20 being formed on the surface closest to the center of the slider 10. With this configuration, when viewed from a direction along axis a3, the pressing member 30 can be positioned in the recess of the slider 10, making it possible to miniaturize the multi-directional operation switch device 1.

[0038] Each side portion 20 has a central region Tn located in the center of the side portion 20 when viewed from a direction along axis a3, and inclined regions Ts located on both sides of the central region Tn. When viewed from a direction along axis a3, each inclined region Ts is inclined so as it approaches the center of the slider 10 from both ends of the side portion 20 toward the central region Tn. The outline of the inclined region Ts is curved, and the inclination increases as it approaches the center of the slider 10. In other words, each inclined region Ts is inclined so as it moves away from the center of the slider 10 from the central region Tn toward both ends of the side portion 20, and the inclination decreases as it moves away from the center of the slider 10. The inclination angle of the inclined region Ts with respect to the central region Tn is appropriately set, for example, within a range greater than 0° and less than 45°. The center of the slider 10 is located midway between the first side portion 21 and the second side portion 22, and also midway between the third side portion 23 and the fourth side portion 24.

[0039] Each side portion 20 functions as a linear cam. For example, when the slider 10 moves in a predetermined direction (any one of the first to fourth directions d1), the side portion 20 also moves in the predetermined direction. The pressing member 30 that is in contact with the side portion 20 located in the predetermined direction directs the movement of the slider 10 in the predetermined direction (X-axis or Y-axis direction) in the direction that presses the pressing switch 50 (Z-axis direction), thereby pressing the pressing switch 50. Furthermore, the pressing member 30 that is in contact with the side portion 20 located in a direction perpendicular to the predetermined direction moves along the curve of the inclined region Ts of the side portion 20, directing the movement of the X-axis or Y-axis direction of the curve portion of the inclined region Ts in the direction that presses the pressing switch 50 (Z-axis direction).

[0040] Figure 8 is a perspective view showing the pressing member 30 and the pressing switch 50 of the multi-directional operation switch device 1. Figure 8 shows a state in which the slider 10 and rotation suppression member 75 have been removed from a part of the switch device 1 shown in Figure 7.

[0041] The switch device 1 has a plurality of push switches 50, including a first push switch 51, a second push switch 52, a third push switch 53, a fourth push switch 54, and a fifth push switch 55.

[0042] The first push switch 51 is positioned corresponding to the first direction d1, the second push switch 52 is positioned corresponding to the second direction d2, the third push switch 53 is positioned corresponding to the third direction d3, and the fourth push switch 54 is positioned corresponding to the fourth direction d4. For example, when viewed from a direction perpendicular to both the first axis a1 and the second axis a2, the first push switch 51 is positioned on one side of the first axis a1 (in this embodiment, the X-axis positive side) with respect to axis a3, and the second push switch 52 is positioned on the other side of the first axis a1 (in this embodiment, the X-axis negative side) with respect to axis a3. Furthermore, the third push switch 53 is positioned on one side of the second axis a2 (in this embodiment, the Y-axis positive side) with respect to axis a3, and the fourth push switch 54 is positioned on the other side of the second axis a2 (in this embodiment, the Y-axis negative side) with respect to axis a3.

[0043] The fifth push switch 55 is located on the shaft a3. A linear transmission member 76 is provided between the fifth push switch 55 and the slider 10. The fifth push switch 55 is turned on or off by applying a pressing force in a direction along the shaft a3 via the slider 10 and the linear transmission member 76.

[0044] The push switch 50 is, for example, a self-resetting tact switch that turns on or off when it receives an external pressing force. The push switch 50 has a fixed part 57 connected to the circuit board 81 by a fixing member 82, and a movable part 58 that moves relative to the fixed part 57 (see Figures 3 and 4). When the push switch 50 is mounted on the circuit board 81, the movable part 58 moves in a direction perpendicular to the circuit board 81 (Z-axis direction). In other words, the movable part 58 moves in a direction parallel to or along axis a3. The movable part 58 moves toward the center of the fixed part 57 when it receives an external pressing force, and returns to its original position when the external pressing force is released and it self-resets. For example, the inside of the push switch 50 is provided with a diaphragm or leaf spring to return the movable part 58 to its original position. The original position is the position of the movable part 58 when the slider 10 is in the neutral position. In its original position, that is, the neutral position of the slider 10, the force with which each movable part 58 presses against each pressing member 30 is balanced.

[0045] Each of the multiple pressing members 30 is a member that transmits the force applied by the movement of the slider 10 to the movable part 58 of the pressure switch 50. In addition, each of the multiple pressing members 30 is a member that transmits the force applied by the movement of the movable part 58 of the pressure switch 50 to the side part 20 of the slider 10. For example, the force in the Z-axis direction that causes the movable part 58 of the pressure switch 50 to self-return to the off position when the external pressing force is released is transmitted to the side part 20 of the slider 10 in the X-axis or Y-axis direction.

[0046] The multiple pressing members 30 consist of four pressing members 30, which include a first pressing member 31, a second pressing member 32, a third pressing member 33, and a fourth pressing member 34.

[0047] The first pressing member 31 is positioned between the first pressure switch 51 and the slider 10, and is in contact with the movable part 58 of the first pressure switch 51 and the first side surface 21 of the slider 10. The second pressing member 32 is positioned between the second pressure switch 52 and the slider 10, and is in contact with the movable part 58 of the second pressure switch 52 and the second side surface 22 of the slider 10. The third pressing member 33 is positioned between the third pressure switch 53 and the slider 10, and is in contact with the movable part 58 of the third pressure switch 53 and the third side surface 23 of the slider 10. The fourth pressing member 34 is positioned between the fourth pressure switch 54 and the slider 10, and is in contact with the movable part 58 of the fourth pressure switch 54 and the fourth side surface 24 of the slider 10.

[0048] Furthermore, the term "in contact" above refers not only to direct contact, but also to substantial contact. This includes the following: For example, if another member is provided between the pressing member 30 and the pressing switch 50, the pressing member 30 and the pressing switch 50 will be substantially in contact via the other member. For example, if another member is provided between the pressing member 30 and the slider 10, the pressing member 30 and the slider 10 will be substantially in contact via the other member. Furthermore, the pressing member 30 may be composed of multiple members, some of which may be in contact with the movable part 58 of the pressing switch 50, and other parts of which may be in contact with the side surface 20 of the slider 10.

[0049] The pressing member 30 has a pivot point 41, a slider contact portion 42 connected to the pivot point 41, and a switch contact portion 45 connected to the pivot point 41. The pivot point 41 is rotatably supported by a fixing member 83. The slider contact portion 42 is positioned next to the slider 10 and contacts the side portion 20 of the slider 10. The switch contact portion 45 is positioned on the press switch 50 and contacts the movable portion 58.

[0050] The pressing member 30 rotates around the pivot point 41 due to the force applied from the side portion 20 of the slider 10 to the slider contact portion 42, and applies a pressing force to the movable portion 58 using the switch contact portion 45. In addition, the pressing member 30 rotates around the pivot point 41 due to the force applied from the movable portion 58 to the switch contact portion 45, and applies a pressing force to the side portion 20 using the slider contact portion 42.

[0051] The slider contact portion 42 has a projection 42a that protrudes toward axis a3 when viewed from a direction perpendicular to both the first axis a1 and the second axis a2. The projection 42a has a rounded tip and is in contact with the side surface 20 of the slider 10. For example, the pressing member 30 applies a pressing force to the pressing switch 50 by moving the projection 42a of the slider contact portion 42 to follow the inclined region Ts of the side surface 20. The pressing member 30 also moves the slider 10 by pressing the projection 42a of the slider contact portion 42 against the inclined region Ts of the side surface 20 and applying a sliding force to the inclined region Ts.

[0052] Furthermore, the slider contact portion 42 has a groove-shaped recess 42b on its back surface, which is in the opposite direction to the direction in which the protruding portion 42a protrudes, and which is recessed away from the housing side wall portion 61. The housing side wall portion 61 is provided with a protrusion 61b that is inserted into the recess 42b. The protrusion 61b of the housing side wall portion 61 functions as a guide portion for guiding the movement of the pressing member 30, and the slider contact portion 42 applies a pressing force to the slider 10 while moving guided by the protrusion 61b of the housing side wall portion 61. For example, the slider contact portion 42 slides against the protrusion 61b while its movement in the direction perpendicular to the direction in which the pressing force is applied to the slider 10 (the direction in which the slider 10 is trying to move) is restricted, and applies a pressing force to the slider 10. The operation of the switch device 1 will be described in detail below.

[0053] [Operation of the multi-directional control switch device] The operation of the multi-directional switch device 1 will be explained with reference to Figure 9.

[0054] Figure 9 shows the operation of the slider 10 and the pressing member 30 of the multi-directional operation switch device 1. Here, the case where the slider 10 moves in the first direction d1 is used as an example for explanation. Note that the pressing switch 50 is not shown in Figure 9.

[0055] Figure 9(a) shows the state when the slider 10 is in the neutral position. Figure 9(b) shows the state when the slider 10 has moved in the first direction d1 based on an external input. Figure 9(c) shows the state when no external input is being received. Figure 9(d) shows the state when the slider 10 has returned to the neutral position. In Figures 9(a) and (d), the protruding portion 42a of the slider contact portion 42 is in contact with the central region Tn of the side portions 23 and 24, whereas in Figures 9(b) and (c), the protruding portion 42a is in contact with the inclined region Ts of the side portions 23 and 24.

[0056] As shown in Figure 9(a), when the switch device 1 is not receiving any external input, the slider 10 is in the neutral position. In the neutral position, the self-restoring forces of the four push switches 51-54 are approximately equal. Therefore, the four directional forces applied from the four push switches 51-54 to the central region Tn of the four side portions 21-24 via the four pressing members 31-34 are approximately equal. In this state, the protrusions 42a of each pressing member 31-34 are in contact with the central region Tn.

[0057] As shown in Figure 9(b), when the slider 10 receives an external input and moves in a first direction d1, the slider contact portion 42 of the first pressing member 31 moves in the first direction d1 with its protruding portion 42a in contact with the central region Tn of the first side surface 21. The slider contact portion 42 of the second pressing member 32 moves in the first direction d1 with its protruding portion 42a in contact with the central region Tn of the second side surface 22. The slider contact portion 42 of the third pressing member 33 moves in a third direction d3 with its protruding portion 42a in contact with the inclined region Ts of the third side surface 23. The slider contact portion 42 of the fourth pressing member 34 moves in a fourth direction d4 with its protruding portion 42a in contact with the inclined region Ts of the fourth side surface 24.

[0058] The pressing force from the first side portion 21 due to the movement of the slider 10 causes the first pressing member 31 to rotate, and the first pressing switch 51 is pressed. This switches the first pressing switch 51 to an on or off state. At this time, the third pressing switch 53 is pressed by the third pressing member 33 to the extent that the on or off state of the third pressing switch 53 does not change. Similarly, the fourth pressing switch 54 is pressed by the fourth pressing member 34 to the extent that the on or off state of the fourth pressing switch 54 does not change. The second pressing switch 52 is also pressed by the second pressing member 32 to the extent that the on or off state of the second pressing switch 52 does not change. Furthermore, the second push switch 52 is pressed by the second pressing member 32 with a force weaker than the force pressing the third push switch 53 and the fourth push switch 54.

[0059] As shown in Figure 9(c), when no external input is received, the slider 10 begins to move in the direction of returning to the neutral position.

[0060] At this time, the first press switch 51 applies force to the first pressing member 31 by its self-restoring force. The first pressing member 31 applies a pressing force to the first side portion 21 of the slider 10 by the force applied from the first press switch 51. As a result, the slider 10 receives a force that returns it in the direction opposite to the first direction d1 (the direction of the neutral position) via the first side portion 21.

[0061] At this time, the third press switch 53 applies force to the third pressing member 33 by its self-restoring force. The third pressing member 33 applies a pressing force to the inclined region Ts of the third side portion 23 of the slider 10 by the force applied from the third press switch 53. The third pressing member 33 applies a pressing force to the slider 10 so as to move toward the central region Tn, following the inclined region Ts of the third side portion 23.

[0062] Here, since the protrusion 61b of the housing side wall 61 is inserted into the recess 42b of the third pressing member 33, the movement of the third pressing member 33 in the direction along the first axis a1 is restricted. As a result, the protrusion 42a of the third pressing member 33 slides in the inclined region Ts, and a force toward the central region Tn is applied to the slider 10. This causes the slider 10 to receive a force that returns it in the direction opposite to the first direction d1 (the direction of the neutral position) via the inclined region Ts of the third side surface 23.

[0063] At this time, the fourth press switch 54 applies force to the fourth pressing member 34 by its self-restoring force. The fourth pressing member 34 applies a pressing force to the inclined region Ts of the fourth side portion 24 of the slider 10 by the force applied from the fourth press switch 54. The fourth pressing member 34 applies a pressing force to the slider 10 so as to follow the inclined region Ts of the fourth side portion 24 and move toward the central region Tn.

[0064] Here, since the protrusion 61b of the housing side wall 61 is inserted into the recess 42b of the fourth pressing member 34, 4 Pressing member 34 Movement along the first axis a1 is restricted. Therefore,4 Pressing member 34 The protruding portion 42a slides along the inclined region Ts, applying a force to the slider 10 toward the central region Tn. As a result, the slider 10 receives a force that returns it in the opposite direction to the first direction d1 (the direction of the neutral position) via the inclined region Ts of the fourth side portion 24.

[0065] Thus, the slider 10 receives a force from the first pressing member 31, the third pressing member 33, and the fourth pressing member 34 that returns it in the opposite direction to the first direction d1, and is moved to the neutral position (see Figure 9(d)). The slider 10 also receives a pressing force from the second pressing member 32, but the pressing force of the second pressing member 32, which is based on the self-restoring force of the second pressing switch 52, is weaker than the pressing force of the first pressing member 31, so the force returning it in the opposite direction to the first direction d1 prevails, and it moves to the neutral position.

[0066] The switch device 1 of this embodiment comprises a slider 10 that can move in four directions, four push switches 50, and four pressing members 30. Each of the four side portions 20 of the slider 10 has an inclined region Ts that slopes toward the center of the slider 10. The push switches 50 have a movable portion 58 that moves to its original position when the pressure is released. The pressing members 30 are in contact with the movable portion 58 and the side portions 20, respectively.

[0067] With this configuration, when external input ceases, the force applied by the movement of the movable parts 58 of the multiple push switches 50 can be applied to the inclined regions Ts of the multiple side surfaces 20 of the slider 10 via the multiple pressing members 30. This allows the slider 10 to be smoothly returned to the neutral position.

[0068] Furthermore, with this switch device 1, the slider 10 can be returned to the neutral position by utilizing the inclined region Ts of the side portion 20 of the slider 10, thus suppressing an increase in the number of parts of the switch device 1, as in the conventional technology. Also, with this switch device 1, since the slider 10 can be returned to the neutral position by utilizing the inclined region Ts of the side portion 20 of the slider 10, it is possible to suppress an increase in the size of the switch device 1. In addition, by using, for example, a self-resetting tact switch as the push switch 50, a click sensation can be obtained.

[0069] [Modified Example 1 of the Embodiment] A modified example of the embodiment 1, a multi-directional operation switch device 1A, will be described. In modified example 1, the multi-directional operation switch device 1A is equipped with a control unit 85 that determines whether or not four push switches 50 are pressed.

[0070] Figure 10 shows a multi-directional operation switch device 1A according to a modified example 1 of the embodiment.

[0071] The switch device 1A of the modified example 1 also comprises a base member 80, a circuit board 81, a housing 60, an operating body 70, a slider 10, a plurality of pressing members 30, and a plurality of push switches 50. The switch device 1A also comprises a panel member 74, a rotation suppression member 75, a linear transmission member 76, and fixing members 82 and 83.

[0072] For example, in the multi-directional operation switch device 1A of the modified example 1, the inclination of the inclined regions Ts of the multiple side portions 20 of the slider 10 is greatly increased. Therefore, for example, when the slider 10 receives an external operation input and moves in the first direction d1, the slider contact portion 42 of the third pressing member 33 moves in the third direction d3 as the protruding portion 42a contacts the inclined region Ts of the third side portion 23. At this time, because the inclination of the inclined region Ts of the third side portion 23 is large, the amount of movement of the protruding portion 42a in the third direction d3 is large. Then, the amount of movement of the protruding portion 42a in the third direction d3 causes the third pressing member 33 to rotate around the pivot point 41, and the third pressing switch 53 is pressed.

[0073] Similarly, for example, when the slider 10 receives an external input and moves in the first direction d1, the slider contact portion 42 of the fourth pressing member 34 moves in the fourth direction d4 as the protruding portion 42a contacts the inclined region Ts of the fourth side portion 24. At this time, because the inclination of the inclined region Ts of the fourth side portion 24 is large, the amount of movement of the protruding portion 42a in the fourth direction d4 becomes large. Then, the amount of movement of the protruding portion 42a in the fourth direction d4 causes the fourth pressing member 34 to rotate around the pivot portion 41, and the fourth pressing switch 54 is pressed.

[0074] The switch device 1A of the modified example 1 includes a control unit 85 that determines whether four push switches 50 are pressed or not. The control unit 85 is mounted on a circuit board 81, as shown in Figure 10. For example, the control unit 85 determines that all three push switches, the first push switch 51, the third push switch 53, and the fourth push switch 54, are pressed, and then determines that the push switch located between the three push switches (i.e., the first push switch 51) has been pressed, or in other words, that the switch device 1A has been switched in the first direction d1.

[0075] In the switch device 1A of the modified example 1, when external input ceases, the slider 10 is returned to the neutral position using the self-restoring force of the three push switches 50 obtained via the multiple side portions 20. In particular, in modified example 1, the push switches (e.g., the third push switch 53 and the fourth push switch 54) positioned perpendicular to the direction of the external input (e.g., the first direction d1) are pressed to the ON position. This increases the force that smoothly returns the slider 10 to the neutral position. Furthermore, even if the push switches (e.g., the third push switch 53 and the fourth push switch 54) positioned perpendicular to the direction of the external input (e.g., the first direction d1) are turned ON, the direction of operation (the push switch that was intentionally pressed) can be determined.

[0076] [Modified Example 2 of the Embodiment] A modified example of the embodiment 2, specifically a multi-directional operation switch device 1A, will now be described. In modified example 2, similar to modified example 1, the multi-directional operation switch device 1A includes a control unit 85 that determines whether or not the four push switches 50 are pressed. In modified example 2, the control unit 85 is configured to output signals related to the locking of the push switches 51 to 54.

[0077] In Modification 2, similar to Modification 1, the inclination of the inclined regions Ts of the multiple side portions 20 of the slider 10 is made larger. Therefore, for example, when the slider 10 moves in the first direction d1 in response to an external input, it is pressed to a position where the first push switch 51, the third push switch 53, and the fourth push switch 54 are turned on.

[0078] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing an example of processing operation by the control unit 85 according to a modified example 2 of the embodiment.

[0079] As shown in the flowchart in Figure 11, the control unit 85 determines whether any one of the four push switches 51 to 54 is pressed (on) (step S1).

[0080] If the control unit 85 determines that any one of the push switches (for example, the first push switch 51) is pressed (YES in step S1), it outputs a signal indicating that the push switch (for example, the first push switch 51) remains on and will not turn off, i.e., a signal indicating that it is stuck on (step S2). A case in which step S1 is YES may occur, for example, when the slider 10 is in the neutral position and one of the four push switches 51 to 54 is stuck on. The above signal indicating that it is stuck on is output to, for example, an in-vehicle device or an ECU (Electronic Control Unit). The in-vehicle device or ECU that receives the signal notifies the user or the like that the push switch is stuck on. After that, the control unit 85 returns to step S1 and continues to execute the processing from step S1 onwards.

[0081] If the control unit 85 does not determine that any one of the four push switches 51 to 54 is pressed (NO in step S1), it determines whether any two of the four push switches 51 to 54 are pressed (step S3).

[0082] If the control unit 85 determines that any two of the push switches (for example, the first push switch 51 and the third push switch 53) are pressed (YES in step S3), it outputs a signal indicating that at least one of the other two push switches (for example, the second push switch 52 and the fourth push switch 54) remains off and cannot be turned on, i.e., an off-lock signal (step S4). Cases in step S3 that result in YES include, for example, when one push switch located in the direction of movement of the slider 10 is off-locked, or when one of the two push switches located at a 90° angle to the direction of movement of the slider 10 is off-locked. The above off-lock signal is output to the in-vehicle equipment or ECU. The in-vehicle equipment or ECU that receives the signal notifies the user or others that at least one of the two other push switches is stuck in the off position. The control unit 85 returns to step S1 and continues to execute the processes from step S1 onward.

[0083] If the control unit 85 does not determine that any two of the four push switches 51 to 54 are pressed (NO in step S3), it determines whether any three of the four push switches 51 to 54 are pressed (step S5).

[0084] If the control unit 85 determines that any three of the four push switches 51 to 54 are pressed (YES in step S5), it determines that the push switch located between the three push switches is pressed (step S6), similar to the first modified example. In this case, the control unit 85 determines that the push switch located between the three push switches has been switched in that direction. On the other hand, if the control unit 85 does not determine that any three of the four push switches 51 to 54 are pressed (NO in step S5), it returns to step S1 and continues to execute the processes from step S1 onward.

[0085] In the switch device 1A of the modified example 2, when external input ceases, the slider 10 is returned to the neutral position using the self-restoring force of the three push switches 50 obtained via the multiple side portions 20. Furthermore, since the push switches (e.g., the third push switch 53 and the fourth push switch 54) positioned perpendicular to the direction in which the external input was received (e.g., the first direction d1) are also turned on, a signal indicating that the push switch is stuck can be output when any one or any two push switches are detected as being pressed.

[0086] Furthermore, the control unit 85 may output a signal indicating that any one of the push switches is stuck in the ON position if it determines that there is pressure on it for a predetermined period of time or longer.

[0087] Furthermore, if the control unit 85 determines that any two of the push switches have been pressed for a predetermined period of time or longer, it may output a signal indicating that the other two push switches are stuck in the off position.

[0088] The above example shows step S3 being executed after step S1, but it is not limited to this; for example, step S1 may be executed after step S3. Alternatively, steps S1 and S3 may be executed in parallel, and step S5 may be executed only if the determinations in both steps S1 and S3 are NO.

[0089] (summary) As described above, the multi-directional operation switch device 1 according to this embodiment is a switch device that can be slid in four directions. The multi-directional operation switch device 1 comprises a slider 10 that can move in four directions, four push switches 50 arranged corresponding to each of the four directions for detecting the movement of the slider 10, and four pressing members 30 arranged between the slider 10 and each of the four push switches 50. The slider 10 has four side portions 20 that intersect a first axis a1 or a second axis a2 along the four directions. Each of the four side portions 20 has an inclined region Ts that slopes toward the center of the slider 10. The push switches 50 have a movable part 58 that moves to its original position when the pressure is released and it returns to its original position. The pressing members 30 are in contact with the movable part 58 and the side portions 20, respectively.

[0090] With this configuration, for example, when external input is no longer received, the force applied by the movement of the movable parts 58 of the multiple push switches 50 can be applied to the inclined regions Ts of the multiple side surfaces 20 of the slider 10 via the multiple pressing members 30. This allows the slider 10 to be smoothly returned to the neutral position.

[0091] Furthermore, the pressing member 30 may transmit the force applied by the movement of the slider 10 to the movable part 58, or it may transmit the force applied by the movement of the movable part 58 to the side part 20.

[0092] This pressing member 30 allows the press switch 50 to be turned on or off by moving the slider 10, and the slider 10 to be returned to its original position by moving the movable part 58. This allows the multi-directional operation switch device 1 to be operated and the slider 10 to be returned to the neutral position.

[0093] Alternatively, the push switch 50 may apply force to the pressing member 30 by the force that moves the movable part 58 back to its original position, and the pressing member 30 may apply a pressing force to the side portion 20 by the force applied from the push switch 50, and the slider 10 may move toward the neutral position by receiving the pressing force via the side portion 20.

[0094] With this configuration, the slider 10 can be returned to the neutral position by the coordinated movement of the pressure switch 50 and the pressing member 30.

[0095] Furthermore, the slope of the inclined region Ts may increase as it approaches the center of the slider 10.

[0096] According to this, the closer the slider 10 is to the neutral position, the greater the force required to move the slider 10 back to the neutral position. This allows the slider 10 to be returned to the neutral position smoothly.

[0097] Furthermore, the pressing member 30 has a switch contact portion 45 that contacts the movable portion 58, a slider contact portion 42 that contacts the side portion 20, and a pivot portion 41 that serves as a pivot point when the pressing member 30 rotates. The pressing member 30 may rotate around the pivot portion 41 by the force applied from the movable portion 58 to the switch contact portion 45, and apply a pressing force to the side portion 20 via the slider contact portion 42.

[0098] With this configuration, the force applied by the movement of the movable part 58 of the pressure switch 50 can be transmitted to the side portion 20 of the slider 10 via the pressing member 30. This allows the slider 10 to be smoothly returned to the neutral position.

[0099] Furthermore, the multi-directional operation switch device 1 also has a housing 60 that, when viewed from the slider 10, at least a portion of which is located outside the pressing member 30. The housing 60 has a guide portion that contacts the slider contact portion 42, and the slider contact portion 42 may apply a pressing force to the slider 10 while moving guided by the guide portion.

[0100] This configuration allows for the application of a pressing force to the slider 10 while suppressing vibrations when the pressing member 30 moves. This enables the slider 10 to be smoothly returned to the neutral position.

[0101] Furthermore, the multi-directional operation switch device 1 also has a housing 60 that houses a slider 10 and four pressing members 30. Each pressing member 30 has a recess 42b that is recessed away from the side wall of the housing 60, and the housing may have a protrusion 61b that is inserted into the recess 42b.

[0102] This configuration allows for the application of a pressing force to the slider 10 while suppressing vibrations when the pressing member 30 moves. This enables the slider 10 to be smoothly returned to the neutral position.

[0103] Furthermore, the four side portions 20 include a first side portion 21 located in a first direction d1 of the four directions, a second side portion 22 located in a second direction d2 opposite to the first direction d1, a third side portion 23 located in a third direction d3 perpendicular to the first direction d1, and a fourth side portion 24 located in a fourth direction d4 opposite to the third direction d3. When the slider 10 is moved in the first direction d1, it may receive a force from a pressing member 31 positioned in accordance with the first direction d1, returning it in the opposite direction to the first direction d1 via the first side portion 21, a force from a pressing member 33 positioned in accordance with the third direction d3, returning it in the opposite direction to the first direction d1 via the inclined region Ts of the third side portion 23, and a force from a pressing member 34 positioned in accordance with the fourth direction d4, returning it in the opposite direction to the first direction d1 via the inclined region Ts of the fourth side portion 24.

[0104] With this configuration, in addition to the pressing member 31, two more pressing members 33 and 34 are used to apply force to the respective inclined regions Ts of the third side portion 23 and the fourth side portion 24 of the slider 10, allowing the slider 10 to return to the direction opposite to the first direction d1. This allows the slider 10 to return smoothly to the neutral position.

[0105] Furthermore, the four push switches 50 include a first push switch 51 positioned corresponding to a first direction d1 of the four directions, a second push switch 52 positioned corresponding to a second direction d2 opposite to the first direction d1, a third push switch 53 positioned corresponding to a third direction d3 perpendicular to the first direction d1, and a fourth push switch 54 positioned corresponding to a fourth direction d4 opposite to the third direction d3. The four pressing members 30 include a first pressing member 31 positioned between the first push switch 51 and the slider 10, a second pressing member 32 positioned between the second push switch 52 and the slider 10, a third pressing member 33 positioned between the third push switch 53 and the slider 10, and a fourth pressing member 34 positioned between the fourth push switch 54 and the slider 10. When the slider 10 is moved in the first direction d1, it may be subjected to a force that returns it to the opposite direction from the first direction d1 by the first pressing member 31, the third pressing member 33, and the fourth pressing member 34.

[0106] With this configuration, in addition to the first push switch 51, the slider 10 can be returned to the opposite direction from the first direction d1 using the third push switch 53 and the fourth push switch 54. This allows the slider 10 to be returned smoothly to the neutral position.

[0107] Furthermore, when the slider 10 is moved in the first direction d1 and the first push switch 51 is switched on or off, the third push switch 53 may be pressed against the third pressing member 33 to the extent that the on or off state of the third push switch 53 does not change, and the fourth push switch 54 may be pressed against the fourth pressing member 34 to the extent that the on or off state of the fourth push switch 54 does not change.

[0108] This multi-directional switch device 1 makes it possible to detect switching operations in the first direction d1.

[0109] Furthermore, the multi-directional operation switch device 1A also includes a control unit 85 that determines whether or not the four push switches 50 are pressed. The control unit 85 may determine that the multi-directional operation switch device 1A has been switched in the first direction d1 when it determines that the first push switch 51, the third push switch 53, and the fourth push switch 54 are pressed.

[0110] This multi-directional switch device 1A makes it possible to detect switching operations in the first direction d1.

[0111] Furthermore, the control unit 85 may output a signal indicating that one of the push switches among the first push switch 51, the second push switch 52, the third push switch 53, and the fourth push switch 54 is in an ON state and will not be turned OFF, if it determines that there is pressure on that push switch.

[0112] With this configuration, if any one of the first, second, third, and fourth push switches 51, is detected as being pressed, a signal indicating that the said push switch remains on and will not be turned off can be output, for example, to an in-vehicle device.

[0113] Furthermore, if the control unit 85 determines that any two of the first, second, third, and fourth push switches (51, 52, 53, and 54) are pressed, it may output a signal indicating that at least one of the other two push switches remains off and does not turn on.

[0114] With this configuration, if any two of the first, second, third, and fourth push switches (51, 52, 53, and 54) are detected as being pressed, a signal indicating that at least one of the other two push switches remains off and cannot be turned on can be output, for example, to an in-vehicle device.

[0115] (Other embodiments, etc.) The above describes a multi-directional operation switch device according to the embodiments of this disclosure, but this disclosure is not limited to these embodiments.

[0116] In the above embodiment, an example was shown in which the slider contact portion 42 has a recess 42b, but it is not limited to this. For example, the housing side wall portion 61 may have a recess that is recessed away from the slider contact portion 42, and the slider contact portion 42 may have a protrusion into which it is inserted. In this case, the recess in the housing side wall portion 61 functions as a guide portion for guiding the movement of the pressing member 30, and the slider contact portion 42 applies a pressing force to the slider 10 while moving guided by the recess in the housing side wall portion 61.

[0117] Figure 9 above illustrates an example where the slider 10 moves in the first direction d1, but the same applies when the slider 10 moves in the second direction d2, the third direction d3, or the fourth direction d4.

[0118] This disclosure is not limited to this embodiment. Within the scope of one or more embodiments, various modifications to this embodiment that a person skilled in the art could conceive of, or configurations constructed by combining components from different embodiments, may also be included, without departing from the spirit of this disclosure. [Industrial applicability]

[0119] The multi-directional operation switch device described herein is useful as a switch for the operation section of various electronic devices. [Explanation of symbols]

[0120] 1. 1A Multidirectional Operation Switch Device 10 Sliders 10b Mounting holes 11 Top section 12 Bottom part 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 Side part 30, 31, 32, 33, 34 Pressing members 41. Support point 42 Slider contact area 42a Protrusion 42b recess 45 Switch contact area 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55 Push switch 57 Fixed part 58 Moving parts 60 cabinets 61 Side wall of the housing 61b Convex part (guide part) 61h First side wall section 61i shoulder area 61j Second side wall 62 Top surface of the enclosure 62b Through hole 70 Operating Units 71 Knob 72 Connecting member 74 Panel components 74a Recess 74b Through hole 75 Rotation suppression member 76 Linear transmission member 80 Base member 81 Circuit board 82, 83 Fixing members 85 Control Unit a1 First axis a2 2nd axis a3 axis d1 First direction d2 Second direction d3 Third direction d4 The fourth direction Tn central region Ts slope area

Claims

1. A multi-directional switch device that can be slid in four directions, A slider that can move in the four directions, To detect the movement of the slider, four push switches are arranged corresponding to each of the four directions, Four pressing members are positioned between the slider and each of the four pressing switches, Equipped with, The slider has four side surfaces that intersect the first or second axis along the four directions, Each of the four side portions has an inclined region that slopes toward the center of the slider, The aforementioned push switch has a movable part that moves to its original position when the pressure is released and it returns to its original position. The pressing member contacts the movable part and the side part, respectively. The four side portions include a first side portion located in a first direction among the four directions, a second side portion located in a second direction opposite to the first direction, a third side portion located in a third direction perpendicular to the first direction, and a fourth side portion located in a fourth direction opposite to the third direction. When the slider is moved in the first direction, The pressing member, which is positioned in accordance with the first direction, receives a force returning in the direction opposite to the first direction via the first side surface, The pressing member, which is positioned in accordance with the third direction, receives a force returning in the direction opposite to the first direction via the inclined region of the third side surface, and The pressing member, positioned in accordance with the fourth direction, receives a force returning to the direction opposite to the first direction via the inclined region of the fourth side surface. Multidirectional operation switch device.

2. The pressing member transmits the force applied by the movement of the slider to the movable part, or transmits the force applied by the movement of the movable part to the side surface. The multi-directional operation switch device according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned press switch applies force to the pressing member by the force that moves the movable part back to its original position. The pressing member applies a pressing force to the side surface by the force applied from the pressing switch. The slider, upon receiving the pressing force through its side portion, moves toward its neutral position. The multi-directional operation switch device according to claim 1.

4. The slope of the aforementioned inclined region increases as it approaches the center of the slider. The multi-directional operation switch device according to claim 1.

5. The pressing member has a switch contact portion that abuts the movable portion, a slider contact portion that abuts the side portion, and a pivot portion that serves as a pivot point when the pressing member rotates. The force applied from the movable portion to the switch contact portion causes the pressing member to rotate around the pivot portion, and a pressing force is applied to the side portion via the slider contact portion. The multi-directional operation switch device according to claim 1.

6. Furthermore, the housing has a portion that, when viewed from the slider, is located outside the pressing member, The housing has a guide portion that contacts the slider contact portion, The slider contact portion moves guided by the guide portion, applying a pressing force to the slider. The multi-directional operation switch device according to claim 5.

7. Furthermore, it has a housing that accommodates the slider and the four pressing members, The pressing member has a recess that is recessed in a direction away from the side wall of the housing, The housing has a protrusion that is inserted into the recess, The multi-directional operation switch device according to claim 1.

8. A multi-directional operating switch device that can be slid in four directions, A slider that can move in the four directions, To detect the movement of the slider, four push switches are arranged corresponding to each of the four directions, Four pressing members are positioned between the slider and each of the four pressing switches, Equipped with, The slider has four side surfaces that intersect the first or second axis along the four directions, Each of the four side portions has an inclined region that slopes toward the center of the slider, The aforementioned push switch has a movable part that moves to its original position when the pressure is released and it returns to its original position. The pressing member contacts the movable part and the side part, respectively. The four push switches include a first push switch arranged in a direction corresponding to a first direction among the four directions, a second push switch arranged in a direction corresponding to a second direction opposite to the first direction, a third push switch arranged in a third direction perpendicular to the first direction, and a fourth push switch arranged in a fourth direction opposite to the third direction. The four pressing members include a first pressing member positioned between the first pressing switch and the slider, a second pressing member positioned between the second pressing switch and the slider, a third pressing member positioned between the third pressing switch and the slider, and a fourth pressing member positioned between the fourth pressing switch and the slider. When the slider is moved in the first direction, it receives a force from the first pressing member, the third pressing member, and the fourth pressing member that returns it in the direction opposite to the first direction. Multidirectional operation switch device.

9. When the slider moves in the first direction and the first pressure switch is switched on or off, The third press switch is pressed against the third pressing member within a range in which the on / off state of the third press switch does not change. The fourth press switch is pressed by the fourth pressing member within a range in which the on / off state of the fourth press switch does not change. The multi-directional operation switch device according to claim 8.

10. Furthermore, it includes a control unit that determines whether or not the four pressure switches are pressed, The control unit determines that the multi-directional operation switch device has been switched in the first direction when it determines that the first, third, and fourth push switches are pressed. The multi-directional operation switch device according to claim 8.

11. The control unit, when it determines that any one of the first, second, third, and fourth push switches is pressed, outputs a signal indicating that the one push switch remains on and does not turn off. The multi-directional operation switch device according to claim 10.

12. The control unit, when it determines that any two of the first, second, third, and fourth push switches are pressed, outputs a signal indicating that at least one of the other two push switches remains off and not turned on. The multi-directional operation switch device according to claim 10.

13. A multi-directional operating switch device that can be slid in four directions, A slider that can move in the four directions, To detect the movement of the slider, four push switches are arranged corresponding to each of the four directions, Four pressing members are positioned between the slider and each of the four pressing switches, Equipped with, The slider has four side surfaces that intersect the first or second axis along the four directions, Each of the four side portions has an inclined region that slopes toward the center of the slider, The aforementioned push switch has a movable part that moves to its original position when the pressure is released and it returns to its original position. The pressing member contacts the movable part and the side part, respectively. Furthermore, the pressing member has a switch contact portion that abuts the movable portion, a slider contact portion that abuts the side portion, and a pivot portion that serves as a pivot point when the pressing member rotates, and rotates around the pivot portion by the force applied from the movable portion to the switch contact portion, and applies a pressing force to the side portion via the slider contact portion. Furthermore, the housing has a portion that, when viewed from the slider, is located outside the pressing member, The housing has a guide portion that contacts the slider contact portion, The slider contact portion moves guided by the guide portion, applying a pressing force to the slider. Multidirectional operation switch device.

14. A multi-directional operating switch device that can be slid in four directions, A slider that can move in the four directions, To detect the movement of the slider, four push switches are arranged corresponding to each of the four directions, Four pressing members are positioned between the slider and each of the four pressing switches, Equipped with, The slider has four side surfaces that intersect the first or second axis along the four directions, Each of the four side portions has an inclined region that slopes toward the center of the slider, The aforementioned push switch has a movable part that moves to its original position when the pressure is released and it returns to its original position. The pressing member contacts the movable part and the side part, respectively. Furthermore, it has a housing that accommodates the slider and the four pressing members, The pressing member has a recess that is recessed in a direction away from the side wall of the housing, The housing has a protrusion that is inserted into the recess. Multidirectional operation switch device.

Images