Input device

Abstract

To reduce the possibility that the swinging of an operation knob is hindered in a manner in which it is difficult to return due to the influence of a foreign matter.SOLUTION: An input device includes: a substrate; a case that accommodates the substrate; an operation knob that is swingably connected to the case and operated by an operator; and a panel member having an opening that allows the operation knob to swing, and at least a portion of the opening being closed by the operation knob. The operation knob has a swing end formed at a predetermined distance from a rotation axis that is a rotation center when the operation knob swings. The panel member has a fixed end which constitutes an opening and is disposed opposite the swinging end of the operating knob in a neutral state where no operation is performed, and a gap is formed between the swinging end and the fixed end. The case has a protrusion, and at least a portion of the protrusion overlaps the gap when viewed in plan from a first direction perpendicular to the substrate in the neutral state.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 11

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an input device.

Background Art

[0002] The following Patent Document 1 discloses a configuration of a switch device including an operation knob provided at an opening of a case and swingably supported by the case, and a cover that closes a part of the opening of the case. Further, a technique for preventing foreign matter from remaining in the recess of the cover by providing a plurality of holes in the recess of the cover of the switch device is disclosed.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] However, in the switch device disclosed in Patent Document 1, a large-diameter foreign object having a flat shape such as a coin may fall into the case from the gap between the operation knob and the cover, and the foreign object may be sandwiched between the case and the operation knob in a form that is difficult to remove. And, this may inhibit the swinging of the operation knob and make it difficult to perform an input operation.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] An input device according to one embodiment comprises a substrate, a case housing the substrate, an operating knob pivotably connected to the case and operated by an operator, and a panel member having an opening that allows the operating knob to swing, the opening of which at least a portion is closed by the operating knob, wherein the operating knob has a swing end formed at a predetermined distance from a rotation axis which is the center of rotation when the operating knob swings, and the panel member has an opening and a fixed end that is positioned opposite the swing end of the operating knob in a neutral state when no operation is being performed, and a gap is formed between the swing end and the fixed end, wherein the case has a projection, and when viewed from a first direction perpendicular to the substrate in a neutral state, at least a portion of the projection overlaps with the gap. [Effects of the Invention]

[0006] According to one embodiment of the input device, the risk of the swing of the operating knob being hindered in a way that makes it difficult to return to its original position due to the influence of foreign matter can be reduced. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0007] [Figure 1] External perspective view of an input device according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] Disassembled perspective view of an input device according to one embodiment. [Figure 3] External perspective view of the switch section of an input device according to one embodiment. [Figure 4] Plan view of the switch section of an input device according to one embodiment. [Figure 5] Exploded perspective view of the switch section of an input device according to one embodiment. [Figure 6] Figure 4 shows a perspective cross-sectional view of the switch section of an input device according to one embodiment, cut along the cross-sectional line AA. [Figure 7] Figure 4 shows a perspective cross-sectional view of the switch section of an input device according to one embodiment, cut along the cross-sectional line BB. [Figure 8] External perspective view of the operation knob of the switch section of an input device according to one embodiment. [Figure 9] Plan view of an input device according to one embodiment. [Figure 10] Perspective cross-sectional view of an input device according to an embodiment, cut along the cutting plane C-C shown in FIG. 9 [Figure 11] Cross-sectional view of an input device according to an embodiment, cut along the cutting plane D-D shown in FIG. 9 [Figure 12] Cross-sectional view of an input device according to an embodiment and a large-diameter foreign object that has entered its insertion space, cut along the cutting plane D-D as in FIG. 12 [Figure 13] Diagram for explaining the effect of an input device according to an embodiment on a large-diameter foreign object [Figure 14] Cross-sectional view of an input device according to an embodiment, cut along the cutting plane F-F shown in FIG. 13 [Figure 15] Diagram for explaining the position and dimensions of the second gap of an input device according to an embodiment [Figure 16] Diagram for explaining an input device according to an embodiment and the state when a tablet-shaped foreign object that has entered its insertion space has fallen beside the gap [Figure 17] Diagram for explaining the effect of an input device according to an embodiment on a tablet-shaped foreign object [Figure 18] Diagram for explaining an input device according to an embodiment and the state when a liquid foreign object is poured into its insertion space [Figure 19] Diagram for explaining the effect of an input device according to an embodiment on a liquid foreign object [Figure 20] Cross-sectional view of an input device according to an embodiment, cut along the cutting plane G-G shown in FIG. 15, in the driving state where the operation knob has swung [Figure 21] Partial enlarged view of an input device according to an embodiment, with the part PE shown in FIG. 20 enlarged [Figure 22] Partial enlarged view of an input device according to Modification 1 [Figure 23] Partial enlarged view of an input device according to Modification 2 [Figure 24] Cross-sectional view showing the shape of the upper end according to Modification 3 [Figure 25] Cross-sectional view showing the shape of the upper end according to Modification 4

MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0008] Hereinafter, an embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, for convenience, the X-axis direction is the front-rear direction, the Y-axis direction is the left-right direction, and the Z-axis direction is the up-down direction. However, the positive direction of the X-axis is the front direction, the positive direction of the Y-axis is the right direction, and the positive direction of the Z-axis is the up direction.

[0009] (Overview of the input device 100) FIG. 1 is an external perspective view of an input device 100 according to an embodiment. FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the input device 100 according to an embodiment.

[0010] The input device 100 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 is installed in a vehicle such as an automobile and can be used as an input device for operating an in-vehicle device (for example, an electric parking brake) that is electrically driven.

[0011] The input device 100 includes a mechanism for preventing the operation knob 120 from stacking due to the intrusion of solid foreign matter, and a waterproof mechanism. In this embodiment, large-diameter foreign matter FS1, tablet-shaped foreign matter FS2, and liquid foreign matter FS3 are assumed as the foreign matter that causes problems. Specifically, the large-diameter foreign matter FS1 assumed is a coin. Specifically, the tablet-shaped foreign matter FS2 assumed is a tablet-shaped solid confectionery such as FRISK (registered trademark) that is packaged and sold in a small size and large quantity. Specifically, the liquid foreign matter FS3 assumed is a large amount of juice. Here, the coin referred to here means a coin with a large current market circulation. The coin referred to here means a 1-yen coin (diameter 20.0 mm, thickness 1.5 mm), a 1-cent coin (diameter 19.05 mm, thickness 1.55 mm), a 0.01-euro coin (diameter 16.25 mm, thickness 1.67 mm), and a 1-yuan coin (diameter 25 mm, thickness 1.85 mm). Here, the 1-yuan coin referred to here means the fourth edition coin issued after 2000 AD.

[0012] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the input device 100 includes a switch unit 100A and a console panel 180.

[0013] The console panel 180 is an example of a "panel member." The console panel 180 is a member that constitutes the console of the driver's seat of a vehicle. In this embodiment, the console panel 180 constitutes a center console located on the central front side of the interior space of the vehicle. The console panel 180 is a member made by molding synthetic resin. The console panel 180 has a flat plate portion 181D that is parallel to the XY plane. A rectangular opening 181 is formed in the flat plate portion 181D of the console panel 180, with the X-axis direction as the longitudinal direction when viewed from above (positive Z-axis direction). In this embodiment, the four rectangular corners formed by the opening 181 and the end 181E of the flat plate portion 181D that constitutes the opening 181 are chamfered and rounded. The console panel 180 also has a wall portion 181F that extends downward from the end 181E of the flat plate portion 181D that constitutes the opening 181. Furthermore, the console panel 180 has a bottom wall portion 181B formed substantially parallel to the XY plane by curving the tip end that extends downward from the end portion 181E on the front side of the wall portion 181F. The rear end (fixed end 181C) of the bottom wall portion 181B of the console panel 180 is formed parallel to the YZ plane. In addition, the console panel 180 has an opening 181G formed by the fixed end 181C and the lower end of the wall portion 181F. The opening 181G is a hole formed by penetrating the console panel 180 in the vertical direction. The opening 181G is an example of an "opening".

[0014] The switch unit 100A comprises a case 110 positioned below the console panel 180 (negative Z-axis direction) and fixed relative to the console panel 180, and an operating knob 120 positioned above the case 110 (positive Z-axis direction) and pivotably connected to the case 110. The switch unit 100A also comprises a second operating knob 170 positioned above the case 110 (positive Z-axis direction) and slidably connected vertically to the case 110. As shown in Figure 1, the switch unit 100A is incorporated into the console panel 180 in such a manner that at least a portion of the upper side of the operating knob 120 and at least a portion of the upper side of the second operating knob 170 protrude above the opening 181G. The openings 181 and 181G are formed with dimensions that allow the operating knob 120 to pivot. The opening 181G is closed by the operating knob 120 and the second operating knob 170. The upper end of the operating knob 120 and the upper end of the second operating knob 170 have a planar shape, and in the neutral state when no operation is performed, these ends are positioned to coincide with the plane formed by the flat plate portion 181D of the console panel 180.

[0015] As shown in Figure 1, an operating section 120C is formed at the upper and front end of the operating knob 120 to receive input from the operator. The operating knob 120 is positioned near the center in the front-to-back direction (X-axis direction) inside the opening 181. An insertion space 181A is formed in front of the operating knob 120 inside the opening 181 (positive X-axis direction) and above the bottom wall portion 181B of the console panel 180, allowing the operator to insert their finger from above the opening 181 and touch the operating section 120C.

[0016] For example, the switch unit 100A generates a detection signal when the operating knob 120 is operated and transmits the detection signal to the drive unit (not shown) of the electric parking brake, which is provided separately from the input device 100. Upon receiving the detection signal, the drive unit activates (locks or releases) the vehicle's parking brake by driving it.

[0017] The switch section 100A is equipped with a second operating knob 170 located inside the opening 181G and behind the operating knob 120 (negative X-axis side). The second operating knob 170 is supported by the case 110 so as to be movable in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) and can be pressed by an operator.

[0018] For example, when the second operating knob 170 is pressed, the switch unit 100A generates a second detection signal and transmits this second detection signal to the drive unit of the electric parking brake. Upon receiving the second detection signal, the drive unit switches the auto-hold function of the vehicle's parking brake ON or OFF.

[0019] (Configuration of the 100A switch unit) Figure 3 is an external perspective view of the switch section 100A of the input device 100 according to one embodiment. Figure 4 is a plan view of the switch section 100A of the input device 100 according to one embodiment. Figure 5 is an exploded perspective view of the switch section 100A of the input device 100 according to one embodiment. Figure 6 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the switch section 100A of the input device 100 according to one embodiment, cut along the cross-sectional line AA shown in Figure 4. Figure 7 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the switch section 100A of the input device 100 according to one embodiment, cut along the cross-sectional line BB shown in Figure 4. Figure 8 is an external perspective view of the operation knob 120 of the switch section 100A of the input device 100 according to one embodiment.

[0020] As shown in Figures 3 to 7, the switch unit 100A comprises an operating knob 120, a case 110, an actuator 140, a coil spring 150, a circuit board 160, a cover 130, and a second operating knob 170.

[0021] In Figure 4, the second operating knob 170 is shown assembled into the case 110. The second operating knob 170 has been explained using Figures 1 and 2, so its further explanation will be omitted.

[0022] <Operation knob 120> The operating knob 120 is a resin component that receives operating force from the operator and swings. As shown in Figure 6, the operating knob 120 has a hollow structure with an open bottom. The operating knob 120 is positioned above the case 110 and is supported so as to be swingable relative to the case 110 by being connected to the upper side (positive Z-axis side) of the case 110. The operating knob 120 has bearing holes 121 on the rotation axis AX, which is the center of rotation, and on each of the left and right sides. The operating knob 120 is supported so as to be rotatable relative to the case 110, forward (positive X-axis direction) and backward (negative X-axis direction) about the rotation axis AX, by the bearing holes 121 being connected to a cylindrical portion 111A provided on the rotation axis AX of the case 110. The operating knob 120 is an example of an "operating knob".

[0023] Furthermore, a rectangular cylindrical portion 122, perpendicular to the circuit board 160, is provided in the internal space 120A of the operating knob 120, hanging down from the ceiling surface of the internal space 120A. An actuator 140 and a coil spring 150 are arranged inside the cylindrical portion 122.

[0024] Furthermore, in the internal space 120A of the operating knob 120, a flat plate portion 123 perpendicular to the substrate 160 is provided on the left side (negative Y-axis side) of the cylindrical portion 122, hanging down from the ceiling surface of the internal space 120A.

[0025] A first pressing portion 123A is provided at the front (positive X-axis) end of the bottom surface of the plate portion 123. The first pressing portion 123A is in contact with the top of the push switch 161-1 and presses the push switch 161-1 when the operating knob 120 swings forward (positive X-axis direction).

[0026] A second pressing portion 123B is provided at the rear (negative X-axis) end of the bottom surface of the plate portion 123. The second pressing portion 123B is in contact with the top of the push switch 161-2 and presses the push switch 161-2 when the operating knob 120 swings backward (negative X-axis direction).

[0027] <Case 110> The case 110 is a container-shaped member having a hollow structure. The case 110 is made of synthetic resin. In this embodiment, the case 110 is molded by injection molding. The substrate 160 is housed inside the case 110. The upper part of the case 110 has a wall portion 111 with a substantially rectangular tubular outer shape that extends in the vertical direction. The lower part of the case 110 has a plate-shaped base portion 111C that extends forward from the lower part of the wall portion 111 and is parallel to the XY plane direction. The wall portion 111 has an upper opening 111B. The upper opening 111B is covered by the operating knob 120 after assembly. The wall portion 111 has a pair of cylindrical portions 111A that protrude from both the left and right outer wall surfaces on the rotation axis AX. The cylindrical portion 111A has a shape corresponding to the bearing hole 121 of the operating knob 120 and is provided at a position corresponding to the bearing hole 121 (i.e., on the rotation axis AX). The wall portion 111 supports the operating knob 120 so that it can swing in the front-rear direction (X-axis direction) by each of the pair of cylindrical portions 111A engaging with each of the pair of bearing holes 121. The operating knob 120 supported by the cylindrical portions 111A closes the upper opening 111B. Case 110 is an example of a "case".

[0028] The case 110 has a cam groove 112 located inside the wall portion 111, below the cylindrical portion 122 of the operating knob 120. The cam groove 112 has a V-shaped groove when viewed from the left-right direction (Y-axis direction), and has a bottom portion 112A in the center in the front-back direction (X-axis direction).

[0029] <Actuator 140> The actuator 140 is a columnar resin member positioned within the cylindrical portion 122 of the operating knob 120, on the upper side (positive Z-axis side) of the cam groove 112 of the case 110, so as to be movable in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction). The actuator 140 is positioned inside the cylindrical portion 122 so that its curved tip 141 faces downward. The tip 141 of the actuator 140 is pressed against the cam groove 112 of the case 110 (see Figure 6) by a biasing force from the coil spring 150. The tip 141 of the actuator 140 slides along the slope of the cam groove 112 of the case 110 as the operating knob 120 swings.

[0030] <Coil spring 150> The coil spring 150 is positioned inside the cylindrical portion 122 provided in the operating knob 120, on the upper side (positive Z-axis side) of the actuator 140, and biases the actuator 140 downward (negative Z-axis direction).

[0031] <Substrate 160> The circuit board 160 is a flat, rigid resin component. The circuit board 160 is placed on the cover 130 inside the case 110 and is positioned parallel to the XY plane. For example, a Printed Wiring Board (PWB) can be used as the circuit board 160. On the upper surface 160A of the circuit board 160, and below the plate portion 123 provided on the operating knob 120, two push switches 161-1 and 161-2 are arranged side by side in the front-to-back direction (X-axis direction), with push switch 161-1 facing forward (positive X-axis side). The circuit board 160 is an example of a "circuit board".

[0032] <Cover 130> The cover 130 is a resin component that closes the lower opening 110A of the case 110 by being fitted into the lower opening 110A. The cover 130 has a generally rectangular parallelepiped shape. The substrate 160 is placed on the cover 130. Multiple engaging claws 131 are provided on the side of the cover 130. The cover 130 is fixed to the case 110 by the multiple engaging claws 131 engaging with each of the multiple openings 114 formed on the side of the case 110.

[0033] (Operation of input device 100) When the operating knob 120 is not being operated, the tip 141 of the actuator 140 is engaged with the bottom 112A of the V-shaped cam groove 112 provided in the case 110, utilizing the biasing force from the coil spring 150. As a result, when the operating knob 120 is not being operated, the operating knob 120 can maintain a neutral position.

[0034] When the operating knob 120 is operated, the actuator 140 swings together with the operating knob 120. At that time, the tip 141 of the actuator 140 is pressed against the inclined surface of the V-shaped cam groove 112 provided in the case 110 by the biasing force from the coil spring 150, and slides along the inclined surface of the cam groove 112 of the case 110.

[0035] When the operating knob 120 swings forward (in the positive X-axis direction), the first pressing portion 123A on the bottom surface of the plate portion 123 of the operating knob 120 presses the push switch 161-1. As a result, the push switch 161-1 switches on and outputs a detection signal.

[0036] On the other hand, when the operating knob 120 swings backward (in the negative X-axis direction), the second pressing portion 123B on the bottom surface of the plate portion 123 of the operating knob 120 presses the push switch 161-2. As a result, the push switch 161-2 switches on and outputs a detection signal.

[0037] Furthermore, when the operation of the operating knob 120 is released, the tip 141 of the actuator 140 slides along the inclined surface of the cam groove 112 of the case 110, utilizing the biasing force from the coil spring 150, and re-engages with the bottom 112A of the cam groove 112. As a result, when the operation of the operating knob 120 is released, the operating knob 120 can return to its neutral position.

[0038] (Anti-stack structure and waterproof structure) The following describes the effects of a stack prevention structure that prevents the input device 100 according to one embodiment from becoming stuck in a configuration that makes it difficult to swing the operating knob 120, with reference to Figures 9 to 17. The effects of a waterproof structure provided by the input device 100 according to one embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 18 to 19. The positional relationship between the projection 115 and the rib 124 of the input device 100 according to one embodiment, and its modified form, will be described with reference to Figures 20 to 23.

[0039] Figure 9 is a plan view of an input device 100 according to one embodiment. Figure 10 is a perspective cross-sectional view of the input device 100 according to one embodiment, cut along the cross-sectional line CC shown in Figure 9. Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of the input device 100 according to one embodiment, cut along the cross-sectional line DD shown in Figure 9. Figure 12 is a cross-sectional view of the input device 100 according to one embodiment and a large-diameter foreign object FS1 that has entered its insertion space 181A, cut along the cross-sectional line DD in the same manner as in Figure 12. Figure 13 is a diagram illustrating the effect of the input device 100 according to one embodiment on the large-diameter foreign object FS1. Figure 14 is a cross-sectional view of the input device 100 according to one embodiment, cut along the cross-sectional line FF shown in Figure 13. Figure 15 is a diagram illustrating the position and dimensions of the second gap 102 of the input device 100 according to one embodiment. Figure 16 is a diagram illustrating what happens when a tablet-shaped foreign object FS2 that has entered the input device 100 according to one embodiment and its insertion space 181A falls near the gap 101. Figure 17 is a diagram illustrating the effect of the input device 100 according to one embodiment on a tablet-shaped foreign object FS2. Figure 18 is a diagram illustrating the input device 100 according to one embodiment and the state when a liquid foreign object FS3 is poured into its insertion space 181A. Figure 19 is a diagram illustrating the effect of the input device 100 according to one embodiment on a liquid foreign object FS3. Figure 20 is a cross-sectional view of the input device 100 according to one embodiment, cut along the cross-sectional line GG shown in Figure 15, in a driven state where the operating knob 120 is oscillating. Figure 21 is a partially enlarged view of the input device 100 according to one embodiment, with the part PE shown in Figure 20 enlarged. Figure 22 is a partially enlarged view of the input device 200 according to modification 1, with the part PE enlarged in the same way as in Figure 21. Figure 23 is a partially enlarged view of the input device 300 according to modification 2, with the part PE enlarged in the same way as in Figure 21. Figure 24 is a cross-sectional view showing the shape of the upper end portion 115A according to modification 3. Figure 25 is a cross-sectional view showing the shape of the upper end portion 115A according to modification 4.

[0040] As shown in Figures 9 to 11, the operating knob 120 has a pivot end 120B at its front end (positive X-axis side) that pivots around the pivot rotation axis AX. The pivot end 120B is located below the operating part 120C in the neutral position. In this embodiment, the pivot end 120B is formed parallel to the Y-axis direction. The pivot end 120B is formed at the position furthest from the cylindrical portion 111A that constitutes the rotation axis AX when the operating knob 120 is viewed from the Y-axis direction (an example of a "predetermined distance"). The pivot end 120B is an example of a "pivot end".

[0041] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 9, 11-12, the console panel 180 has a fixed end 181C at the rear (negative X-axis) end of the bottom wall portion 181B of the insertion space 181A, which is positioned opposite the swing end 120B of the operating knob 120 when the operating knob 120 is not being operated. The fixed end 181C of the console panel 180 is formed in a shape parallel to the Y-axis direction. In this embodiment, the swing end 120B and the fixed end 181C are formed parallel to the Y-axis direction, but they are only required to be positioned opposite each other and have a shape that allows the swing of the operating knob 120. For example, the swing end 120B and the fixed end 181C may have a shape (not shown) that includes a wavy curved surface shape that is not parallel to the Y-axis direction. Also, for example, the swing end 120B and the fixed end 181C may have a shape (not shown) that includes a sloped surface that intersects the Y-axis direction at an angle. Fixed terminal 181C is an example of a "fixed terminal".

[0042] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 9, 11, and 12, a gap 101 is formed between the pivoting end 120B of the operating knob 120 and the fixed end 181C of the console panel 180. It is preferable that the width of the gap 101 be set to be smaller than the thickness of the smallest coin among the coins in circulation. When the dimension of the gap 101 is set to be smaller than the thickness of a coin, as shown in Figure 12, even if a large-diameter foreign object FS1 that has entered the insertion space 181A approaches and comes into contact with the gap 101, the possibility of the large-diameter foreign object FS1 getting stuck in the gap 101 is reduced. In this embodiment, the width of the gap 101 between the pivoting end 120B and the fixed end 181C is set to 1.17 mm. The gap 101 is an example of a "gap".

[0043] Furthermore, the case 110 has four (an example of "multiple") protrusions 115 provided below the gap 101 (in the negative Z-axis direction). When combined with the gap 101, the protrusions 115 have a shape that functions as a kind of filter. The protrusions 115 extend from the wall portion 111 and the base portion 111C toward the gap 101. The protrusions 115 have a surface (upper end portion 115A) that faces the gap 101 on the lower side of the gap 101. In this embodiment, the protrusions 115 are formed as part of the shape of the case 110, but the protrusions 115 may also be formed as part of, for example, the console panel 180. As shown in Figures 9 and 11, when the operating knob 120 is in a neutral state and not being operated, the protrusions 115 overlap with the gap 101 when viewed from the Z-axis direction (a first direction perpendicular to the substrate 160). When the conditions are met, as shown in Figure 13, when the operating knob 120 swings and the dimensions of the gap 101 expand, the large-diameter foreign object FS1 gets stuck in the gap 101 and falls in, but stops when it comes into contact with the upper end 115A of the projection 115. Note that the operating knob 120 shown in Figure 13 is rotated 5° from the neutral position. When the upper part of the large-diameter foreign object FS1 is exposed above the gap by coming into contact with the projection 115, the operator can easily remove the large-diameter foreign object FS1. In this embodiment, when viewed from the Z-axis direction (first direction perpendicular to the substrate 160) in a plan view, the projection 115 and the gap 101 overlap so as to connect the entire length of the gap 101 from end to end in the X-axis direction. However, the projection 115 and the gap 101 only need to be configured such that a large-diameter foreign object FS1 that falls into the gap 101 comes into contact with the upper end portion 115A and stops there, and it is sufficient if the projection 115 and the gap 101 only overlap in part. The upper end portion 115A is an example of an "upper end portion".

[0044] The distance D2 from the top of the gap 101 to the upper end 115A is preferably set to be smaller than the diameter of the smallest coin among the coins in circulation. The distance D2 from the gap 101 to the upper end 115A is preferably set to be smaller than 16.25 mm. In this embodiment, the distance D2 from the gap 101 to the upper end 115A is set to 4.10 mm.

[0045] As shown in Figure 15, the input device 100 according to one embodiment may have a second gap 102 between the opposing surface 115B of the projection 115 and the swing end 120B. When the operation knob 120 swings, the risk of the operation knob 120 being hindered by contact with the projection 115 is reduced. In addition, to prevent large-diameter foreign objects FS1 from getting stuck in the second gap 102, it is preferable that the gap width D3 of the second gap 102 is set to be smaller than the thickness of the smallest coin among the coins in circulation when viewed from the Z-axis direction. It is preferable that the gap width D3 of the second gap 102 is less than 1.5 mm. In this embodiment, the gap width D3 of the second gap 102 is set to 1.35 mm. According to this, the possibility of a large-diameter foreign object FS1 falling into the insertion space 181A becoming stuck in the second gap 102 is reduced.

[0046] Therefore, in the input device 100 according to one embodiment, the operator can easily remove large-diameter foreign objects FS1 that have entered the gap 101. Therefore, in the input device 100 according to one embodiment, the possibility that the swing of the operating knob 120 will be hindered in a way that is difficult to restore due to the influence of large-diameter foreign objects FS1 can be reduced.

[0047] As shown in Figures 6 and 16-20, the case 110 has a through hole 116 adjacent to the lower part of the projection 115 and formed by penetrating the base 111C in the vertical direction. Also, as shown in Figures 14 and 20, the case 110 has a through hole 117 formed in the base 111C adjacent to the lower part of the projection 115 and formed in an oblique direction intersecting the Z-axis direction when viewed from the X-axis direction. Furthermore, as shown in Figure 17, the case 110 has a hole 118 formed by penetrating the space between the multiple projections 115 in the positive X-axis direction, continuous with the space between the multiple projections 115, in order to discharge tablet-shaped foreign matter FS2 or liquid foreign matter FS3 that has fallen between the multiple projections 115 forward. The through holes 116 and 117 are discharge holes for dropping small foreign matter with low anisotropy and small dimensions, such as tablet-shaped foreign matter FS2, and liquid foreign matter FS3, downward to the input device 100 and discharging them. Hole 118 is an outlet hole that discharges tablet-shaped foreign matter FS2 and liquid foreign matter FS3 that have slipped through the projection 115 and fallen, toward the front of the input device 100. The through holes 116, 117, and hole 118 are formed larger than the dimensions of the tablet-shaped foreign matter FS2 so that the tablet-shaped foreign matter FS2 can pass through. Also, as shown in Figures 9, 10, and 14, the case 110 has a plurality of projections 115 (four in this embodiment as an example) arranged in a comb-like shape in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction). The plurality of projections 115 are spaced apart from each other by a predetermined interval D1. The predetermined interval D1 is an example of a "predetermined interval". When viewed from the Z-axis direction, the through hole 116 is located between the plurality of projections 115. As shown in Figure 14, the through hole 117 is located near the outermost projection 115 among the plurality of projections.

[0048] As a result, the input device 100 according to one embodiment can stop large-diameter foreign objects FS1 within the gap 101, as shown in Figures 13 to 15. This makes it easy to pick up and remove the large-diameter foreign objects FS1, thus reducing the possibility of the operating knob 120 getting stuck in a way that makes it difficult to return to its original position and thus making it difficult to perform input operations on the operating knob 120. Furthermore, as a result, the input device 100 according to one embodiment can discharge the tablet-shaped foreign objects FS2 and liquid foreign objects FS3 that have fallen into the gap 101 downwards from the input device 100, as shown in Figures 16 to 19. This reduces the possibility of tablet-shaped foreign objects FS2 accumulating around the operating knob 120, thus reducing the possibility of the operating knob 120 getting stuck due to the intrusion of tablet-shaped foreign objects FS2 and thus making it difficult to perform input operations on the operating knob 120.

[0049] Furthermore, this ensures multiple drainage paths with ample space for discharging liquid foreign matter FS3, so even if a large amount of liquid foreign matter FS3 accumulates in the insertion space 181A, it can be easily discharged. This reduces the possibility of liquid foreign matter FS3 entering the inside of the case 110 and wetting the substrate 160.

[0050] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as shown in Figures 9 and 11, the projection 115 has a plate shape perpendicular to the substrate 160, and the plane formed by the plate shape is parallel to the Z-axis direction (a first direction perpendicular to the substrate 160) and intersects with the gap 101.

[0051] As a result, the input device 100 according to one embodiment can more reliably bring large-diameter foreign objects that have entered the gap 101 into contact with the projection 115 and stop them within the gap 101. In this embodiment, when viewed from the Z-axis direction, the plane formed by the plate shape of the projection 115 is formed perpendicular to the gap 101. When the plane formed by the plate shape of the projection 115 and the gap 101 are positioned at an angle where they intersect, it becomes easier to design a small distance between the position of the swing end 120B, which transitions in accordance with the swing of the operating knob 120, and the projection 115. This relaxes the limiting condition of the swing range of the operating knob 120 required for the configuration combining the projection 115 and the gap 101 to function as a filter. Therefore, the cost of designing the swing range of the operating knob 120 is reduced, and the degree of freedom in other designs is increased.

[0052] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 9 and 11, the projection 115 has an upper end portion 115A that is perpendicular to the Z-axis direction (a first direction perpendicular to the substrate 160) when viewed from the Y-axis direction (a direction parallel to the rotation axis AX). In particular, in this embodiment, the width of the upper end portion 115A in the front-rear direction (X-axis direction) is larger than the width of the gap 101 in the front-rear direction (X-axis direction), and the gap 101 is contained within the range of the width of the upper end portion 115A in the front-rear direction (X-axis direction).

[0053] As shown in Figures 11 to 19, the upper end portion 115A in this embodiment is formed in a planar shape perpendicular to the Z-axis direction, but as shown in Figure 24, the upper end portion 115A may be concave. Also, as shown in Figure 25, the upper end portion 115A may be a concave curved surface. In other words, the upper end portion 115A is shaped to contact and receive the lower end of a large-diameter foreign object FS1 that has fallen down from the gap 101, and to stop the large-diameter foreign object FS1 at a position where it is easy for the operator to grasp and remove the upper end of the large-diameter foreign object FS1. For this reason, the upper end portion 115A only needs to have a shape that can easily contact and stop the lower end of a large-diameter foreign object FS1 that has fallen into the gap 101, and when viewed from the Y-axis direction, it may have various shapes, including concave and concave curved surfaces, not just a planar shape.

[0054] As a result, the input device 100 according to one embodiment can reliably catch large-diameter foreign objects FS1 that have entered the gap 101 with the upper end portion 115A of the projection 115.

[0055] When a tablet-shaped foreign object FS2 enters the insertion space 181A and falls through the gap 101, the tablet-shaped foreign object FS2 falls through the path indicated by the arrow in Figure 14 or Figure 17 and is discharged to the outside of the input device 100. To allow the tablet-shaped foreign object FS2 to fall smoothly, it is preferable that the predetermined interval D1 be set to be larger than the diameter of the tablet-shaped foreign object FS2. When this condition is met, the tablet-shaped foreign object FS2 that falls through the gap 101 will not stop even if it comes into contact with the upper end 115A, but will roll down between the multiple protrusions 115. Furthermore, most of the tablet-shaped foreign object FS2 that rolls down between the multiple protrusions 115 will pass through the through hole 116, or through hole 117, or hole 118 and fall below the input device 100. As a result, the possibility of tablet-shaped foreign objects FS2 accumulating around the operating knob 120 is reduced. Furthermore, this reduces the possibility that the operation knob 120's movement will be hindered by the accumulation of tablet-shaped foreign matter FS2 around it.

[0056] When liquid FS3 is poured into the insertion space 181A, the liquid foreign matter is discharged to the outside of the input device 100 by passing through the path indicated by the arrows in Figures 18 and 19.

[0057] As an example, it is preferable that the predetermined interval D1 is greater than 0.5 mm and less than 16.25 mm. In this embodiment, the predetermined interval D1 is set to 4.3 mm. It is preferable that the predetermined interval D1 be set to be smaller than the diameter of the smallest coin among the coins in circulation. For this reason, it is preferable that the predetermined interval D1 is less than 16.25 mm. Furthermore, when forming a resin molded body with high dimensional accuracy using a mold, a mold insert is used. When forming a comb-shaped structure such as the protrusion 115 using a mold insert, the practical lower limit of the spacing of the comb-shaped structure is 0.5 mm due to the physical strength limit of the mold insert. If the spacing of the comb-shaped structure is set to 0.5 mm or less, the mold insert will be prone to damage during the resin molding process that forms the case 110. Also, if the injection speed and molding pressure during resin molding are adjusted to protect the mold insert while forming a comb-shaped structure with spacing of 0.5 mm or less, the strength of the resulting resin molded body will be unstable, making it impractical. Therefore, it is preferable that the predetermined interval D1 is 0.5 mm or more.

[0058] Furthermore, in this embodiment, as shown in Figures 10 to 12 and Figure 21, the operating knob 120 has a plurality of ribs 124 positioned on the negative X-axis side of the plurality of protrusions 115, and facing each of the plurality of protrusions 115. For example, in this embodiment, as an example, the operating knob 120 has four ribs 124 positioned facing each of the four protrusions 115.

[0059] As a result, in one embodiment of the input device 100, a passage space is formed by two adjacent protrusions 115 and two adjacent ribs 124 facing them. Through holes 116 and 117 are located below this passage. With this configuration, since the passage and the through holes 116 and 117 are directly connected, even if a large amount of tablet-shaped foreign matter FS2 or liquid foreign matter FS3 falls through the gap 101, they can fall through smoothly.

[0060] In this embodiment, each of the multiple ribs 124 is positioned at the same location as each of the multiple protrusions 115 in the Y-axis direction (the axis direction of the rotation axis AX). However, this is not limited to this configuration; for example, as shown in Modification 1 in Figure 22, each of the multiple ribs 124 may be offset from each of the multiple protrusions 115 in the Y-axis direction (the axis direction of the rotation axis AX). In other words, the protrusions 115 and ribs 124 may be arranged alternately in the Y-axis direction (the axis direction of the rotation axis AX).

[0061] In Modified Example 1, the gap width D3 of the second gap 102 is preferably less than 1.5 mm. This allows the input device 100 according to one embodiment to more reliably prevent large-diameter foreign objects FS1 from falling. Furthermore, according to the configuration of Modified Example 1, even if the dimensional accuracy of the projection 115 and the rib 124 is poor, the possibility of the projection 115 and the rib 124 colliding and hindering the swing of the operating knob 120 is reduced. Therefore, manufacturing costs can be reduced.

[0062] Furthermore, as shown in the modified example 2 in Figure 23, each of the multiple ribs 124 may be formed so that, in the driven state when the operating knob 120 is oscillating, each of the multiple ribs 124 fits between the multiple protrusions 115. According to the configuration of modified example 2, the possibility of a large-diameter foreign object FS1 getting stuck between the protrusions 115 and the ribs 124 can be eliminated.

[0063] As a result, the input device 100 according to one embodiment can prevent the coin that has entered the gap 101 from falling out of the gap 101, regardless of whether it is a 1 yen coin (20.0 mm in diameter, 1.5 mm thick), a 1 cent coin (19.05 mm in diameter, 1.55 mm thick), a 0.01 euro coin (16.25 mm in diameter, 1.67 mm thick), or a 1 yuan coin (25 mm in diameter, 1.85 mm thick).

[0064] In this embodiment, the case 110 and the console panel 180 are formed as separate components during the molding process and connected during the assembly process. However, the embodiment is not limited to this, and the case 110 and the console panel 180 may be formed integrally during the molding process.

[0065] 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 or changes are possible within the scope of the gist of the present invention as described in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0066] 100 Input Devices 101 Gap 102 The second gap 110 cases 111 Wall 111A Cylindrical section 111B Top opening 111C base 112 cam groove 112A bottom 114 Opening 115 Protrusion 115A Upper end 115B Opposite surface 116 Through hole 117 Through hole 118 holes 120 Operating knobs 120A internal space 120B Swivel end 120C Control unit 121 Bearing hole 122 Cylinder part 123 Board part 123A First pressing section 123B Second pressing section 124 Ribs 130 Cover 131 Engaging claw 140 Actuators 141 Tip 150 coil springs 160 circuit boards 161-1, 161-2 Push switch 170 Second operating knob 180 Console Panel (Panel Component) 181 Aperture 181A Insertion space 181B Bottom wall part 181C fixed end AX rotation axis D1 predetermined interval D2 distance D3 Spacing width FS1 Large diameter foreign object FS2 tablet-shaped foreign object FS3 Liquid foreign matter PE site

Claims

1. circuit board and A case for housing the aforementioned substrate, The aforementioned case is pivotably supported and includes an operating knob operated by an operator, A panel member having an opening that allows the operation knob to swing, wherein at least a portion of the opening is closed by the operation knob, The operating knob has a swing end formed at a predetermined distance from the axis of rotation which is the center of rotation when the operating knob swings, The panel member constitutes the opening and has a fixed end that is positioned opposite the swinging end of the operating knob when the operation is not being performed. A gap is formed between the pivoting end and the fixed end. An input device, The case has a projection on the lower side of the gap that protrudes toward the gap, and when viewed from a plan view from a first direction perpendicular to the substrate in the neutral state, at least a portion of the projection overlaps with the gap. Multiple such protrusions are provided, and when viewed from the first direction in a plan view, each of the protrusions is spaced apart from one another at a predetermined interval. Input device.

2. A substrate and A case for housing the aforementioned substrate, The aforementioned case is pivotably supported and includes an operating knob operated by an operator, A panel member having an opening that allows the operation knob to swing, wherein at least a portion of the opening is closed by the operation knob, The operating knob has a swing end formed at a predetermined distance from the axis of rotation which is the center of rotation when the operating knob swings, The panel member constitutes the opening and has a fixed end that is positioned opposite the swinging end of the operating knob when the operation is not being performed. A gap is formed between the pivoting end and the fixed end. An input device, The case has a projection on the lower side of the gap that protrudes toward the gap, and when viewed from a plan view from a first direction perpendicular to the substrate in the neutral state, at least a portion of the projection overlaps with the gap. The projection has a plate shape, and the plane formed by the plate shape is parallel to the first direction and intersects the gap. Input device.

3. A substrate and A case for housing the aforementioned substrate, The aforementioned case is pivotably supported and includes an operating knob operated by an operator, A panel member having an opening that allows the operation knob to swing, wherein at least a portion of the opening is closed by the operation knob, The operating knob has a swing end formed at a predetermined distance from the axis of rotation which is the center of rotation when the operating knob swings, The panel member constitutes the opening and has a fixed end that is positioned opposite the swinging end of the operating knob when the operation is not being performed. A gap is formed between the pivoting end and the fixed end. An input device, The case has a projection on the lower side of the gap that protrudes toward the gap, and when viewed from a plan view from a first direction perpendicular to the substrate in the neutral state, at least a portion of the projection overlaps with the gap. The projection has an upper end facing the gap, located below the gap. Input device.

4. The upper end portion is perpendicular to the first direction. The input device according to claim 3.

5. The predetermined interval is greater than 0.5 mm and less than 16.25 mm. The input device according to claim 1.

6. The distance from the upper side of the gap to the upper end in the first direction is less than 16.25 mm. The input device according to claim 3.

7. The operating knob has a plurality of ribs that are positioned opposite to the plurality of protrusions. The input device according to claim 1.

8. Each of the multiple ribs is positioned in the same location as each of the multiple protrusions in the axial direction of the rotation axis. The input device according to claim 7.

9. Each of the multiple ribs is positioned offset from each of the multiple protrusions in the axial direction of the rotation axis. The input device according to claim 7.

10. In the drive state in which the operating knob swings, the rib fits between the multiple protrusions. The input device according to claim 9.

11. A substrate and, A case for housing the aforementioned substrate, The aforementioned case is pivotably supported and includes an operating knob operated by an operator, A panel member having an opening that allows the operation knob to swing, wherein at least a portion of the opening is closed by the operation knob, The operating knob has a swing end formed at a predetermined distance from the axis of rotation which is the center of rotation when the operating knob swings, The panel member constitutes the opening and has a fixed end that is positioned opposite the swinging end of the operating knob when the operation is not being performed. A gap is formed between the pivoting end and the fixed end. An input device, The case has a projection on the lower side of the gap that protrudes toward the gap, and when viewed from a plan view from a first direction perpendicular to the substrate in the neutral state, at least a portion of the projection overlaps with the gap. In the driven state in which the operating knob swings, there is a second gap between the opposing surface of the projection and the swinging end. The gap width of the second gap is less than 1.5 mm. Input device.

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