Input device

Abstract

Provided is an input device with which a degree of freedom related to the position and the shape of a light emitting unit can be increased.　This input device comprises: an exterior plate (21) formed of a light transmissive material; a light diffusion portion (31) facing a lower surface of the exterior plate (21); and a light shielding layer (23) that is formed on one of the lower surface (21d) of the exterior plate (21) and the light diffusion portion (31), and on which a plurality of light transmissive openings (23a) respectively constituting a plurality of light emitting portions (E1 to E5) are formed. A control device (51) selectively causes a plurality of light sources (S1 to S5) to emit light according to information to be presented to a user.

Description

[[TECHNICAL FIELD]]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an input device. [[BACKGROUND ART]]

[0002] The following patent documents disclose input devices used for game operations. These input devices have a plurality of light emitting units on the upper surface thereof.

[0003] When a plurality of users play a game at the same time, a number may be assigned to each user. The input device of Patent Document 1 has a light diffusion member arranged on the rear side of the touch pad. The number assigned to the user is displayed by selectively causing light emission at a plurality of positions (light emitting units) defined in the light diffusion member. In Patent Document 2, a hole is formed in a corner of an exterior plate that constitutes the surface of the touch pad. A light diffusion member is formed below the hole. When the light diffusion member is irradiated with light from a light source, the light exits to the upper side of the exterior plate through the hole. [[PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS]] [[Patent Documents]]

[0004] [[Patent Document 1]] U.S. Patent No. 11534682 [[Patent Document 2]] U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2022 / 040567 [[SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION]] [[Problem to be Solved by the Invention]]

[0005] In the structure of Patent Document 1, since the light diffusion member is arranged over the entire rear edge of the exterior plate of the touch pad, there is a problem that it is difficult to control the light-emitting range in the light diffusion member. For example, a problem may occur in which the light-emitting range spreads greatly in the left-right direction. Therefore, there are significant constraints on the position of the light emitting units (the distance between two adjacent light sources).

[0006] In the structure described in Patent Document 2, since it is necessary to form light-transmitting holes in the outer plate, the illuminated area (light-emitting part) is limited by the size of the holes. Large holes detract from the appearance of the input device, making it difficult to form holes of a size that is easily visible to the user. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The input device proposed in this disclosure is made of a light-transmitting material and comprises an outer plate having a first surface that constitutes a part of the outer surface of the input device and a second surface that faces away from the first surface in a first direction which is the thickness direction of the outer plate; a plurality of light sources; one or more light-diffusing portions that receive light from the plurality of light sources and have a third surface that faces the second surface of the outer plate in the first direction; a light-shielding layer formed on one of the second surface of the outer plate and the third surface of the one or more light-diffusing portions, and having a plurality of openings that each constitute a plurality of light-emitting portions; and a control device that selectively causes the plurality of light sources to emit light according to information presented to the user.

[0008] This input device allows for greater flexibility in the position and shape of the light-emitting part, improving its visibility to the user. Furthermore, because the light-shielding layer is located between the light-diffusing part and the outer plate, the light-emitting part (the opening in the light-shielding layer) becomes less visible when the light source is not illuminated. This prevents users from misinterpreting the information presented through the light-emitting part. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1A] This is a plan view showing an example of the input device proposed in this disclosure. [Figure 1B] Figure 1A is an enlarged view of the main part of the input device shown. [Figure 2A] This is an exploded perspective view of the input pad. The components of the input pad are viewed from above. [Figure 2B]Figure 2A is an enlarged view of the rear of the input pad frame. [Figure 3A] This is an exploded perspective view of the input pad. The components of the input pad are viewed from below. [Figure 3B] Figure 3A is a magnified view of the rear of the exterior plate. [Figure 4] This is a cross-sectional view along line IV-IV shown in Figure 1. [Figure 5] This block diagram shows an example of an input device configuration. [Figure 6] This is a cross-sectional view showing a modified input device. The cutting position in this figure is the same as in Figure 4. [Figure 7] This diagram illustrates the function of the protrusions formed on the exterior plate. [Figure 8] This is a cross-sectional view showing yet another modification of the input device. The cutting position in this figure is the same as in Figure 4. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] The input devices proposed in this disclosure will be described below with reference to the drawings. In this disclosure, input device 10 will be described as an example.

[0011] In the following, the Y1 and Y2 directions shown in Figure 1A, etc., will be referred to as forward and backward, respectively, and the X1 and X2 directions will be referred to as right and left, respectively. In addition, the Z1 and Z2 directions shown in Figure 4 will be referred to as upward and downward, respectively.

[0012] The input device 10 is used as an input device for an information processing device that has functions such as executing game programs, playing video, and communicating via the internet. The input device 10 incorporates various sensors (such as an accelerometer and a gyroscope) used to detect the orientation and movement of the input device 10, as well as a battery. The input device 10 is capable of communicating with the information processing device and transmits signals to the information processing device in response to user operations on the input device 10, as well as signals in response to the orientation and movement of the input device 10. Communication with the information processing device may be wireless or wired. The information processing device may be a server device connected to the input device 10 via the internet.

[0013] [Input component] The input device 10 is, for example, a device that a user holds and operates with both hands. As shown in Figure 1A, the input device 10 has a right holding portion 10R for holding with the right hand and a left holding portion 10L for holding with the left hand. Input members are arranged on the upper surface of the right holding portion 10R and the upper surface of the left holding portion 10L. For example, four input buttons 11 are arranged on the upper surface of the right holding portion 10R, positioned at the vertices of a rhombus. A cross-shaped directional key 12 is arranged on the upper surface of the left holding portion 10L. The right holding portion 10R and the left holding portion 10L may each have input buttons 15 that protrude forward from them.

[0014] As shown in Figure 1A, the right holding portion 10R and the left holding portion 10L each have a grip portion G extending rearward from the area on the upper surface where the input members (in the example of the input device 10, the directional keys 12 and the four input buttons 11) are located. The input device 10 has a central portion 10M located between the right holding portion 10R and the left holding portion 10L. The grip portions G of the holding portions 10R and 10L extend rearward from the rear end of the central portion 10M.

[0015] As shown in FIG. 1A, the input device 10 includes an input pad 20 that is a plate-shaped input member. The input pad 20 is disposed, for example, on the upper surface of the central portion 10M. The input pad 20 is positioned between an input member (specifically, four input buttons 11) disposed on the upper surface of the right held portion 10R and an input member (specifically, a direction key 12) disposed on the upper surface of the left held portion 10L. The input device 10 further includes input sticks 17R and 17L positioned behind the input pad 20.

[0016] The shape of the input device proposed in the present disclosure is not limited to the example of the input device 10 shown in FIG. 1A. For example, the rear end of the central portion 10M may reach the rear ends of the held portions 10R and 10L. In other words, the held portions 10R and 10L do not need to have a rearward-extending grip portion G.

[0017] As still another example, the input device may be configured to be operated with one hand. For example, the input device may be rod-shaped. In this case, the input device may include the input pad 20 at a position operable with the thumb of one hand.

[0018] Furthermore, the type and arrangement of the input members are not limited to the example of the input device 10. For example, the presence or absence of the input pad 20, the positions of the four input buttons 11, the positions of the direction key 12, and the positions of the input sticks 17R and 17L may be changed as appropriate.

[0019] [Exterior Member] The input device 10 includes an exterior member that constitutes the outer casing thereof. The exterior member has a case 40 that accommodates a main circuit board and a battery included in the input device 10. The case 40 may be composed of, for example, an upper case and a lower case that are combined in the vertical direction. The main circuit board is a circuit board on which a communication device 53 (see FIG. 5) that transmits a signal indicating an operation of the input member to an information processing device such as a game device, a control device 51 (see FIG. 5) that controls charging and discharging of a battery, and the like are mounted. A cover may be attached to the outside of the case 40. For example, a cover 41 (see FIG. 4) may be attached to the upper side of the case 40.

[0020] [Input pad] As shown in Figure 2A, the input pad 20 comprises an outer plate 21, a circuit board 22, and an input pad frame 30. The outer plate 21 is located at the top of the input pad 20 and forms part of the upper surface of the central portion 10M. The outer plate 21 is made of a light-transmitting material. Light from the light sources S1 to S5 (see Figure 3A), described later, passes through the outer plate 21 upwards, illuminating the light-emitting parts E1 to E5 (see Figure 1B). The circuit board 22 is attached to the lower surface 21d of the outer plate 21. The circuit board 22 is, for example, bonded to the outer plate 21. The input pad frame 30 covers the lower side of the circuit board 22 and is attached to the lower side of the outer plate 21.

[0021] As shown in Figure 1A, the input pad 20 is positioned, for example, at the front of the upper surface of the central portion 10M. The case 40 (upper case) has a housing opening 40a. The input pad 20 is positioned inside this housing opening 40a (see Figures 1A and 4). The outer plate 21 may have a portion 21a (see Figure 3A) that constitutes the upper surface of the central portion 10M, as well as a portion 21b (see Figure 3A) that constitutes the front of the central portion 10M. In this case, the housing opening 40a of the case 40 in which the input pad 20 is located may open not only upwards but also forwards. The arrangement and shape of the input pad 20 are not limited to the example of the input device 10. For example, the position of the input pad 20 may be located behind the front edge of the central portion 10M.

[0022] A circuit that functions as a touch sensor is formed on the upper surface of the circuit board 22 (the surface in contact with the outer casing plate 21) to detect the position where a user's finger touches the outer casing plate 21. This circuit may have multiple detection electrodes arranged in the front-to-back and left-to-right directions. Multiple IC (Integrated Circuit) chips that function as touch sensor drive circuits, light sources S1 to S5 (described later), and their drive circuits may be mounted on the lower surface of the circuit board 22. These drive circuits may be mounted on a main circuit board (not shown) housed in the case 40.

[0023] [Input pad movements] The input pad 20 is movable up and down and may function as a push button. The input device 10 may have a switch 24 (see Figure 3A) for detecting the up and down movement (press operation) of the input pad 20. The switch 24 is mounted, for example, in the approximate center of the lower surface of the circuit board 22, as shown in Figure 3A. The switch 24 is, for example, an on / off switch. A movable part 24a that can move up and down is provided on the lower surface of the switch 24.

[0024] The case 40, which constitutes the exterior of the input device 10, is located below the input pad 20 (below the input pad frame 30) and houses the main body frame (not shown). When the input pad 20 is pressed and its position is lowered, the movable part 24a of the switch 24 (see Figure 3A) abuts against this main body frame, and the change in the state of the switch 24 is detected. The position pressed by the user can be detected based on the output signal of the touch sensor formed on the circuit board 22 (a signal corresponding to the position of the finger) and the output signal of the switch 24. The output signals of the circuit board 22 and the switch 24 are input to, for example, a microprocessor mounted on the main circuit board and transmitted to an information processing device (game device).

[0025] The input pad 20 may be biased upward by an elastic member such as a spring or rubber (not shown). The input pad 20, when pushed downward, may return to its initial position by the elastic force of this elastic member.

[0026] As shown in Figure 3A, the input pad frame 30 covers the bottom surface of the circuit board 22 and is attached to the outer plate 21. An opening 32j is formed in the input pad frame 30. The switch 24 is exposed on the underside of the input pad frame 30 through this opening 32j and faces the main frame located on the underside of the input pad frame 30.

[0027] Note that the placement of switch 24 is not limited to the example shown in Figure 3A, etc. For example, switch 24 may be mounted on the main body frame (not shown) located below the input pad 20, or on the main circuit board, rather than on the circuit board 22. When the input pad 20 is pressed downwards, the input pad 20 (for example, the input pad frame 30) may press this switch 24.

[0028] The outer plate 21, the circuit board 22, and the input pad frame 30 (specifically, the light diffusion section 31, which will be described later) are fixed to each other and move up and down as a single unit. Therefore, even when the input pad 20 moves up and down, the relative positional relationship of the light diffusion section 31, light sources S1 to S5, light shielding layer 23, and outer plate 21 does not change. As a result, changes in the brightness and size of the light-emitting sections E1 to E5 (see Figure 1B) can be suppressed.

[0029] [Light-emitting part] The information processing device to which the input device 10 is connected runs, for example, a game program that can be played by multiple users simultaneously. The information processing device assigns a number to each user to identify them. Hereafter, these numbers will be referred to as user numbers. For example, if three users play the game, the first user is assigned the user number "1", the second user "2", and the third user "3". The number of users who can play simultaneously may be two or four. The game may also be playable by only one person. In this case, the user may be assigned the user number "1".

[0030] As shown in Figure 1B, the input device 10 has a plurality of light-emitting units E1 to E5. The light-emitting units E1 to E5 are positioned in a location that is easily visible to the user when they are holding the input device 10. For example, the light-emitting units E1 to E5 are provided on the outer plate 21 that constitutes the input device 10. In the input device 10 proposed in this disclosure, the outer plate 21 constitutes an input pad 20, and the light-emitting units E1 to E5 are provided on the input pad 20. The light-emitting units E1 to E5 may be arranged in the left-right direction along the rear edge 21c of the input pad 20. For example, the light-emitting unit E1 is provided in the center, the light-emitting units E2 and E3 are provided to the left and right of the light-emitting unit E1, and the light-emitting units E4 and E5 are provided to the left and right of the light-emitting units E1, E2, and E3, respectively.

[0031] The input device 10 (control device 51, described later, see Figure 5) lights up the light-emitting units E1 to E5 in a number corresponding to the user number. The light-emitting units E1 to E5 may be lit up according to, for example, the following rules. 。 · User number "1": Only light-emitting part E1 lights up, and the rest are off. 。 · User number "2": Only light-emitting parts E2 and E3 will light up, and the rest will be off. 。 · User number "3": Only light-emitting parts E1, E2, and E3 light up, and the rest are off. Or, only light-emitting parts E1, E4, and E5 light up, and the rest are off. 。 · User number "4": Only light-emitting parts E2, E3, E4, and E5 will light up, and the rest will be off. 。 Na Oh, the game may be playable by 5 people. In this case, all of the light-emitting parts E1 to E5 may light up on the input device for user number "5".

[0032] [light source] As shown in Figure 3A, the input device 10 has multiple light sources S1 to S5. The light sources S1 to S5 may be mounted on the underside of the circuit board 22. The light sources S1 to S5 may be arranged in the left-right direction along the trailing edge of the circuit board 22. Specifically, the light sources S1 to S5 are LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes). Each light source S1 to S5 may be an LED that emits white light by combining three LED elements of red, green, and blue, or it may be a monochromatic LED.

[0033] [Light diffusion section] The input device 10 has a light diffusion section 31 for guiding the light from light sources S1 to S5 to light-emitting sections E1 to E5. In the example shown in Figure 2B, there are multiple light diffusion sections 31. Light sources S1 to S5 irradiate the light diffusion sections 31. For example, the multiple light diffusion sections 31 are located behind the light sources S1 to S5, and the light sources S1 to S5 are arranged to emit light backward. The positions of the multiple light diffusion sections 31 (positions of the light diffusion sections 31 in the left-right direction) correspond to the multiple light sources S1 to S5, respectively. Each light diffusion section 31 has a front surface 31a (incident surface, see Figure 4) that receives the light from the light sources S1 to S5.

[0034] The light-diffusing section 31 is, for example, a resin containing light-reflecting fine particles. When light from light sources S1 to S5 enters the front surface 31a of the light-diffusing section 31, the light diffuses inside the light-diffusing section 31, and as a result, the entire light-diffusing section 31 glows.

[0035] In the example shown in Figure 3A, the number of light sources S1 to S5 (five in the example shown) is the same as the number of light diffusion units 31, and the positions of the light sources S1 to S5 correspond to the light diffusion units 31, respectively. However, the arrangement of the light sources S1 to S5 is not limited to this. For example, the light from one light source may be guided by a light guide tube to two light diffusion units 31 (for example, light diffusion units 31 corresponding to light-emitting units E2 and E3).

[0036] Furthermore, while the number of light-emitting units is five in the example shown in Figure 1B, etc., the number is not limited to five. The number of light-emitting units does not need to match the number of light sources; it could be three or four, or even more than five.

[0037] [Light blocking layer] The upper surface 31b (emitting surface, see Figure 4) of the light diffusion section 31 faces the lower surface 21d of the outer plate 21 in the vertical direction. As shown in Figures 3B and 4, a light-shielding layer 23 is formed on the lower surface 21d of the outer plate 21. For example, a light-shielding ink (e.g., black ink) is applied (printed) to the lower surface 21d of the outer plate 21 to form the light-shielding layer 23. After the ink is applied, the light-transmitting aperture 23a may be formed by removing the ink at the location of the light-transmitting aperture 23a, for example, with a laser. When applying the light-shielding ink to the lower surface 21d of the outer plate 21, the location of the light-transmitting aperture 23a may be masked. In this way, a light-shielding layer 23 having a light-transmitting aperture 23a can be formed without using a laser.

[0038] As shown in Figures 3B and 4, the light-shielding layer 23 has multiple light-transmitting openings 23a. The positions of the multiple light-transmitting openings 23a correspond to the multiple light-diffusing sections 31. That is, the light-transmitting openings 23a are located directly above the light-diffusing sections 31. The size of each light-transmitting opening 23a is smaller than the upper surface 31b of each light-diffusing section 31. Light emitted from the upper surface 31b of the light-diffusing section 31 passes through the light-transmitting openings 23a and the outer plate 21, and exits from the upper surface of the outer plate 21, illuminating the light-emitting sections E1 to E5. In other words, the multiple light-transmitting openings 23a each constitute one of the multiple light-emitting sections E1 to E5.

[0039] In this way, since the light-emitting parts E1 to E5 are formed by the light-transmitting aperture 23a of the light-shielding layer 23, the degree of freedom regarding the position and shape of the light-emitting parts E1 to E5 can be increased compared to a structure in which the light from the light-diffusing part 31 directly passes through the outer plate 21 without the light-shielding layer 23. As a result, for example, multiple light-emitting parts E1 to E5 can be arranged in close proximity in a narrow area.

[0040] In the example shown in Figure 3B, the distance D1 between two adjacent light-transmitting apertures 23a (light-emitting sections E1 to E5) is smaller than the length L1 of each light-transmitting aperture 23a in the left-right direction. Also, the width of each light-transmitting aperture 23a in the front-back direction is smaller than the length L1 of each light-transmitting aperture 23a in the left-right direction. Due to the shape and position of the light-transmitting apertures 23a in this way, the light-emitting sections E1 to E5 can be arranged in a region with a small width in the front-back direction, which is secured along the edge of the circuit board 22 (touch sensor).

[0041] Furthermore, since the light-emitting sections E1 to E5 are formed by the light-transmitting aperture 23a, a degree of freedom is ensured regarding the shape of the light-diffusing section 31. As a result, the light-diffusing section 31 can be designed in a shape that is easy to mold. For example, as shown in Figure 2B, the light-diffusing section 31 may be formed to be rectangular in a plan view. On the other hand, the light-transmitting aperture 23a of the light-shielding layer 23 may be smaller than the light-diffusing section 31, elongated in the left-right direction, and approximately elliptical in shape.

[0042] Furthermore, since the light-shielding layer 23 is formed on the outer plate 21 rather than the light-diffusing portion 31, the positions of the light-emitting portions E1 to E5 on the outer plate 21 can be maintained with high precision without being affected by the tolerance between the outer plate 21 and the light-diffusing portion 31.

[0043] In the input device 10, the light-shielding layer 23 is located between the light-diffusing section 31 and the outer plate 21, so when the light sources S1 to S5 are not lit, the positions of the light-emitting sections E1 to E5 (transparent apertures 23a) are difficult to see. Therefore, in use cases where the user recognizes information assigned to them based on the position and number of light-emitting sections E1 to E5, information can be effectively conveyed to the user. For example, the user can correctly recognize the user number assigned to them. If the light-shielding layer 23 were formed on the upper surface of the outer plate 21, the user could see the exposed transparent apertures 23a, making it difficult to distinguish between the lit and unlit light-emitting sections E1 to E5. In contrast, in the input device 10, the light-shielding layer 23 is located between the light-diffusing section 31 and the outer plate 21, so the user can accurately distinguish between the lit and unlit light-emitting sections E1 to E5.

[0044] As described above, the outer plate 21 is made of a light-transmitting material. The outer plate 21 may be colored. For example, the outer plate 21 may be made of a light-transmitting material that is colored black. In other words, the outer plate 21 may be made of a translucent material. This makes it possible to more effectively prevent the light-transmitting aperture 23a from being visible when the light sources S1 to S2 are not lit.

[0045] [Shape of light-transmitting opening] As shown in Figure 3B, the multiple light-transmitting apertures 23a (light-emitting parts E1 to E5, see Figure 1B) may have the same shape. This makes the process of forming the light-transmitting apertures 23a easier compared to the case where the individual light-emitting parts E1 to E5 have different shapes.

[0046] Furthermore, if the light-emitting units E1 to E5 have the same shape, it becomes easy to change the lighting rules for the light-emitting units E1 to E5 and the information displayed using the light-emitting units E1 to E5. For example, unlike the lighting rules described above, only the leftmost light-emitting units E1 to E5, corresponding to the user number, may be lit. For example, when displaying user number "1", only the leftmost light-emitting unit E4 may be lit, and the rest may be off. Similarly, when displaying user number "2", only the two leftmost light-emitting units E4 and E2 may be lit, and the rest may be off. As yet another example, the remaining battery level of the input device 10 may be indicated by the number of light-emitting units E1 to E5 that are lit.

[0047] As shown in Figures 3A and 3B, an engaging portion 21k may be formed between two adjacent light-transmitting openings 23a. The input pad frame 30 and the outer plate 21 may be connected to each other by this engaging portion 21k.

[0048] [Positional relationship between the light-shielding layer and the circuit board] As shown in Figure 4, the lower surface 21d of the outer plate 21 has a front region A2 to which the circuit board 22 is attached, and a facing region A1 that faces the upper surface 31b of the light diffusion portion 31 in the vertical direction. The facing region A1 is a region corresponding to the width of the upper surface 31b (emitting surface) of the light diffusion portion 31 in the front-rear direction. A gap may be maintained between the front region A2 and the facing region A1. The light-shielding layer 23 may extend from the facing region A1 to the front region A2. This makes it possible to suppress light leakage from the gap between the front region A2 and the facing region A1. The light-shielding layer 23 is formed such that at least a part of it includes either the front edge or the rear edge of the facing region A1.

[0049] As shown in Figure 4, the front portion 23b of the light-shielding layer 23 may overlap with the circuit board 22. This allows light leakage to be suppressed even if, for example, the position of the circuit board 22 is shifted forward.

[0050] As shown in Figure 4, by securing a gap between the front region A2 and the opposing region A1, the position of the light-transmitting aperture 23a (light-emitting parts E1 to E5) can be moved rearward from the rear edge of the circuit board 22. As a result, when the light-emitting parts E1 to E5 are lit, the position of the rear edge of the circuit board 22 cannot be seen.

[0051] The front region A2 to which the circuit board 22 is mounted occupies most of the lower surface 21d of the outer plate 21. The opposing region A1, where multiple light-transmitting openings 23a (light-emitting parts E1 to E5) are provided, is an elongated region in the left-right direction along the rear edge 21c of the outer plate 21 (an area with a small width in the front-back direction). The shape of each light-transmitting opening 23a is elongated in the left-right direction (smaller in the front-back direction compared to the left-right direction) to match the shape of the opposing region A1. This allows for effective use of the narrow area behind the circuit board 22 (touch sensor).

[0052] [Shaping of the frame's light-shielding and light-diffusing sections] As shown in Figure 2B, the light-diffusing portion 31 may be integrally molded with the input pad frame 30. The input pad frame 30 has a frame light-shielding portion 32 made of a light-shielding resin. The frame light-shielding portion 32 may be made of, for example, black resin. In Figure 2B, the patterned portion is the light-diffusing portion 31, and the other portion is the frame light-shielding portion 32. The light-diffusing portion 31 and the frame light-shielding portion 32 are formed by two-color molding. The light-diffusing portion 31 and the frame light-shielding portion 32 are bonded together by the chemical properties of their materials.

[0053] [Partition wall section] As shown in Figure 2B, the multiple light-diffusing sections 31 are arranged in a left-right direction along the rear edge 21c of the outer plate 21 (see Figure 2A). The frame light-shielding section 32 has a partition wall section 32a located between two adjacent light-diffusing sections 31. This structure prevents the light from two adjacent light sources S1 to S5 from mixing by the partition wall section 32a.

[0054] On the other hand, in the light-shielding layer 23, as shown in Figure 3B, there is no break in the light-shielding layer 23 between two adjacent light-transmitting apertures 23a. The light-shielding layer 23 is continuous from its right edge 23c (see Figure 3A) to its left edge 23d (see Figure 3A). This effectively suppresses light leakage.

[0055] Unlike the example shown in Figure 3A, etc., multiple light-shielding layers 23 arranged in the left-right direction may be formed on the outer plate 21. The positions of the multiple light-shielding layers 23 may correspond to the positions of the multiple light-diffusing sections 31. In this case, one light-transmitting opening 23a may be formed in each light-shielding layer 23.

[0056] [Detention chamber wall] As shown in Figure 2B, the frame light shielding section 32 has a housing chamber wall 32b for each of the multiple light sources S1 to S5, which houses each light source S1 to S5. The housing chamber wall 32b has a side wall section 32c extending rearward from the partition wall section 32a, and a front wall section 32d located on the opposite side of the light diffusion section 31, with the light sources S1 to S5 in between. The housing chamber wall 32b also has a bottom section 32e (see Figure 4) that covers the underside of the light sources S1 to S5. The housing chamber wall 32b is located below the circuit board 22. Each of the light sources S1 to S5 is surrounded by the light diffusion section 31, the partition wall section 32a, and the housing chamber wall 32b. This effectively suppresses light leakage from the input device 10 to the outside.

[0057] [Shading rear wall] As shown in Figure 4, the frame light-shielding section 32 has a light-shielding rear wall section 32f on the side opposite to the light sources S1 to S5, with the multiple light-diffusing sections 31 in between. The light-shielding rear wall section 32f covers the entire rear surface 31c of the light-diffusing section 31. The light-shielding rear wall section 32f prevents light from the light sources S1 to S5 from leaking out to the rear.

[0058] As shown in Figure 4, the lower surface 21d of the outer plate 21 has a facing region A1 that faces the light diffusion portion 31 and a rear region A3 adjacent to the upper end of the light-shielding rear wall portion 32f. The light-shielding layer 23 may extend from the facing region A1 to the rear region A3. This effectively suppresses light leakage from unintended areas.

[0059] As shown in Figure 4, a recess 21e may be formed in the rear edge 21c of the outer plate 21. The upper end of the light-shielding rear wall portion 32f may be located inside the recess 21e. More specifically, the upper end of the light-shielding rear wall portion 32f may be located above the lower surface 21d of the outer plate 21 and in front of the rear end of the outer plate 21. The rear region A3 in which the light-shielding layer 23 is formed may be formed inside the recess 21e. This makes it possible to more effectively suppress light leakage to the rear side of the input pad 20.

[0060] As shown in Figure 4, the recess 21e has a rear surface 21h facing backward and a bottom surface 21i facing downward. A light-shielding layer 23 may be formed on both the rear surface 21h and the bottom surface 21i. Therefore, the position of the light-shielding layer 23 formed on the rear surface 21h and the bottom surface 21i is higher than the light-transmitting opening 23a. This makes it possible to more effectively suppress light leakage to the rear side of the input pad 20.

[0061] In contrast, the light-shielding layer 23 may be formed only on the rear surface 21h and not on the bottom surface 21i. Furthermore, as another example, the light-shielding layer 23 may not be formed on both the rear surface 21h and the bottom surface 21i.

[0062] As shown in Figure 4, a through-hole 32h may be formed in the bottom 32e of the containment chamber wall 32b. This through-hole 32h facilitates the formation (two-color molding) of the light-diffusing section 31 and the frame light-shielding section 32. For example, after molding the frame light-shielding section 32 with resin, a mold is inserted into the through-hole 32h, and the material for the light-diffusing section 31 is supplied between the mold, the light-shielding rear wall section 32f, and the left and right partition walls 32a. This allows the light-diffusing section 31 to be molded.

[0063] This through-hole 32h opens toward the opposite side from the outer plate 21. The through-hole 32h opens toward the inside of the case 40 of the input device 10, which houses the main circuit board and frame. Therefore, even if light from light sources S1 to S5 leaks through the through-hole 32h toward the inside of the case 40, the impact on the appearance of the input device 10 is minimized.

[0064] As described above, the case 40 of the input device 10 has a roughly rectangular housing opening 40a. The input pad 20 is positioned inside the housing opening 40a (see Figure 4). As shown in Figure 4, the lower part 32i of the light-shielding rear wall 32f protrudes to the rear. The edge of the housing opening 40a is located between the lower part 32i of the light-shielding rear wall 32f and the rear edge 21c of the outer plate 21. This defines the vertical range of motion of the input pad 20.

[0065] [Control device] Figure 5 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of the input device 10. The input device 10 includes a control device 51, a storage device 52, a communication device 53, and the like. The control device 51 includes a processor, and the storage device 52 includes memory elements such as memory. The communication device 53 is a communication interface such as a wireless LAN module or a Bluetooth® module, and communicates data with an information processing device (e.g., a game device) via wired or wireless connection.

[0066] The control device 51 receives a user number (e.g., "1", "2", etc.) transmitted from the information processing device via the communication device 53. The control device 51 selectively illuminates multiple light sources S1 to S5 (see Figure 3A) according to the received user number. For example, the control device 51 illuminates a number of light sources S1 to S5 corresponding to the user information, in accordance with the lighting rules described above.

[0067] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the input device proposed in this disclosure. The cutting position is the same as that of the example shown in Figure 4. In Figure 6, the same reference numerals are used for elements that are the same as those in the examples shown in Figures 1 to 5. The following will mainly explain the differences between the example shown in Figure 6 and the examples shown in Figures 1 to 5. Matters not explained in the example shown in Figure 6 may be the same as those in the examples shown in Figure 4, etc.

[0068] The input pad 120 shown in Figure 6 has an outer plate 21, a circuit board 22, and an input pad frame 30, similar to the example shown in Figure 2A, etc. The input pad frame 30 has a light diffusion section 31 and a frame light shielding section 32 (see Figure 4).

[0069] The input pad 120 has a light-shielding layer 123 positioned between the lower surface 21d of the outer plate 21 and the upper surface 31b of the light-diffusing portion 31. Unlike the light-shielding layer 23 shown in Figure 4, the light-shielding layer 123 is a portion molded from a resin material that has light-shielding properties. That is, the light-shielding layer 123 is formed by supplying molten resin to a mold corresponding to the shape of the light-shielding layer 123, and then cooling and solidifying this resin.

[0070] The light-shielding layer 123 is formed on either the lower surface 21d of the outer plate 21 or the upper surface 31b of the light-diffusing portion 31. In the example shown in Figure 6, the light-shielding layer 123 is formed on the lower surface 21d of the outer plate 21. The light-shielding layer 123 may be integrally molded with the outer plate 21, for example, by double molding. Double molding is a method of obtaining a single molded product by sequentially injecting two resins of different materials into a mold. In the example shown in Figure 6, a molded product having the light-shielding layer 123 and the outer plate 21 is formed by sequentially injecting a light-transmitting molten resin (material for the outer plate 21) and a light-shielding molten resin (material for the light-shielding layer 123) into a mold. The light-shielding layer 23 is heat-welded to the lower surface 21d of the outer plate 21. With such a light-shielding layer 123, the positions of the light-emitting parts E1 to E5 on the outer plate 21 can be maintained with high precision, without being dependent on the tolerance between the outer plate 21 and the light-diffusing part 31.

[0071] The light-shielding layer 123 may extend forward from a position between the lower surface 21d of the outer plate 21 and the upper surface 31b of the light-diffusing portion 31. In other words, the light-shielding layer 123 may have a portion located between the circuit board 22 and the outer plate 21.

[0072] As shown in Figure 6, the light-shielding layer 123 has multiple light-transmitting openings 123a. The positions of the light-transmitting openings 123a correspond to the multiple light-diffusing sections 31. That is, the light-transmitting openings 123a are located directly above the light-diffusing sections 31. The size of each light-transmitting opening 123a is smaller than the upper surface 31b of each light-diffusing section 31. Light emitted from the upper surface 31b of the light-diffusing section 31 passes through the light-transmitting openings 123a and the outer plate 21, and exits from the upper surface of the outer plate 21, illuminating the light-emitting sections E1 to E5 (Figure 1B). In other words, the multiple light-transmitting openings 123a each constitute one of the multiple light-emitting sections E1 to E5.

[0073] In this way, since the light-emitting parts E1 to E5 are formed by the light-transmitting aperture 123a of the light-shielding layer 123, the degree of freedom regarding the position and shape of the light-emitting parts E1 to E5 can be increased compared to a structure in which the light from the light-diffusing part 31 directly passes through the outer plate 21 without the light-shielding layer 123. As a result, for example, multiple light-emitting parts E1 to E5 can be arranged in close proximity in a narrow area. In addition, since the light-emitting parts E1 to E5 are formed by the light-transmitting aperture 123a, the degree of freedom regarding the shape of the light-diffusing part 31 is ensured. As a result, the light-diffusing part 31 can be designed in a shape that is easy to mold.

[0074] [Protrusions formed on the exterior plate] As shown in Figure 6, the outer plate 21 has a plurality of protrusions 21m that project downward on its lower surface 21d. Each of the multiple protrusions 21m is fitted inside the plurality of light-transmitting openings 123a. The height of the lower end 21n of the protrusions 21m is lower than the position of the upper surface 123e of the light-shielding layer 123. Such protrusions 21m increase the range in which the user can see the light-emitting parts E1 to E5.

[0075] Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating the function of the protrusion 21m. In this figure, the slopes 123m and 123n, which are shown in Figure 6 and will be described later, are omitted. Also in Figure 7, the solid line L1 shows an example of light rays emanating from the upper surface 31b of the light diffusion section 31 when the protrusion 21m is formed. Also in the same figure, the dashed line L2 shows the light rays when the protrusion 21m is not formed.

[0076] When using the input device, the user may view the input pad 120 from a diagonal rearward angle. As shown by the dashed line L2, if the protrusion 21m is not formed, light emitted from the upper surface 31b of the light diffusion section 31 diagonally backward may hit the rear edge of the upper end of the light-transmitting aperture 123a. In this case, the user cannot see this light. In contrast, as shown by the solid line L1, if the protrusion 21m is formed, light emitted in the same direction is refracted at the lower end 21n of the protrusion 21m and reaches the user's pupil without hitting the rear edge of the upper end of the light-transmitting aperture 123a. That is, the user can see this light. Thus, the protrusion 21m increases the range in which the user can see the light-emitting sections E1 to E5.

[0077] Furthermore, the lower end 21n of the protrusion 21m does not reach the height of the lower surface of the light-shielding layer 123. In other words, the inside of the light-transmitting opening 123a is not filled by the protrusion 21m. This prevents the thickness of the outer plate 21 from increasing drastically at the location of the protrusion 21m. As a result, it is possible to suppress the occurrence of recesses on the upper surface of the outer plate 21 caused by the shrinkage of the resin material during the molding of the outer plate 21.

[0078] [Upper slope] As shown in Figure 6, the light-transmitting aperture 123a has an upper edge 123g and a lower edge 123h at both ends in the thickness direction of the outer plate 21. The upper edge 123g is the edge located at the end on the outer plate 21 side, and the lower edge 123g is the edge located at the end on the light-diffusing part 31 side. In addition, the inner circumferential surface of the light-transmitting aperture 123a has an intermediate part 123i between the upper edge 123g and the lower edge 123h. The shape of the light-emitting parts E1 to E5 in a plan view of the input pad 120 is determined by the shape of the light-transmitting aperture 123a at the intermediate part 123i.

[0079] As shown in Figure 6, the inner surface of the light-transmitting aperture 123a has an upper slope 123m between the upper edge 123g and the middle portion 123i. The upper slope 123m is formed such that the width W1 of the light-transmitting aperture 123a in the front-to-back direction (Y1-Y2 direction) gradually increases upward. With such an upper slope 123m, as shown by the solid line L3 in Figure 6, it is possible to prevent the upper edge of the light-transmitting aperture 123a from restricting the visibility of light emitted diagonally backward from the light-diffusing portion 31. In other words, the range (viewing angle) in which the user can see the light-emitting portions E1 to E5 can be further increased.

[0080] In the example shown in Figure 6, the upper slope 123m is formed around the entire circumference of the light-transmitting opening 123a. That is, the upper slope 123m is formed over the entire circumferential direction (360 degrees) surrounding the vertical line V1 passing through the light-transmitting opening 123a. When the user uses the input device, they view the input pad 120 from the diagonal rear side. Therefore, unlike the example shown in Figure 6, the upper slope 123m may be formed only on the rear portion of the light-transmitting opening 123a. In this case, the front portion of the inner circumferential surface of the light-transmitting opening 123a (the portion facing the upper slope 123m) may be a vertical plane perpendicular to the outer plate 21.

[0081] [Lower slope] As shown in Figure 6, the inner surface of the light-transmitting aperture 123a has a downward slope 123n between the lower edge 123h and the middle section 123i. The downward slope 123n is formed such that the width W2 of the light-transmitting aperture 123a in the front-to-back direction gradually increases downwards. With such a downward slope 123n, for example, as shown by the solid line L3 in Figure 6, the angle of the light rays (angle θ1 between the vertical line V1 and the solid line L3) directed diagonally backward from the front of the light-diffusing section 31 can be increased. In other words, the range (viewing angle) in which the user can see the light-emitting sections E1 to E5 can be further increased.

[0082] In the example shown in Figure 6, the lower slope 123n is also formed around the entire circumference of the light-transmitting opening 123a. That is, the lower slope 123n is formed over the entire circumference (360 degrees) surrounding the vertical line V1 passing through the light-transmitting opening 123a. Unlike the example shown in Figure 6, the lower slope 123n may be formed only on the front portion of the inner circumferential surface of the light-transmitting opening 123a. In this case, the rear portion of the inner circumferential surface of the light-transmitting opening 123a (the portion facing the lower slope 123n) may be a vertical plane perpendicular to the outer plate 21.

[0083] [Differentiation] In the example shown in Figure 6, the inner surface of the light-transmitting opening 123a has an upper slope 123m and a lower slope 23n. Alternatively, the inner surface of the light-transmitting opening 123a may have only the upper slope 123m.

[0084] Furthermore, as described above, the input device may have inclined surfaces 123m·123n or protrusions 120m in only some (for example, only one) of the multiple light-transmitting apertures 123a corresponding to each of the multiple light-emitting sections E1 to E5.

[0085] [Shading rear wall] As shown in Figure 6, in the input pad 120 as well, the frame light-shielding portion 32 has a light-shielding rear wall portion 32f on the side opposite to the light sources S1 to S5, with the multiple light-diffusing portions 31 in between. The light-shielding rear wall portion 32f covers the entire rear surface 31c of the light-diffusing portion 31. The upper end portion 32g of the light-shielding rear wall portion 32f protrudes above the height of the lower surface 123p of the light-shielding layer 123 (the height of the lower edge portion 123h of the light-transmitting opening 123a). This effectively prevents light from the light-diffusing portion 31 from leaking from the rear side of the input pad 120. The light-shielding layer 123 passes between the upper end portion 32g of the light-shielding rear wall portion 32f and the outer plate 21, reaching the rear edge of the outer plate 21.

[0086] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view showing yet another modification of the input device proposed in this disclosure. The cutting position is the same as in the example shown in Figure 4. In Figure 8, the same reference numerals are used for elements that are the same as those in the example shown in Figure 6. The following will mainly describe the differences between the example shown in Figure 8 and the example shown in Figure 6. Matters not described in the example shown in Figure 8 may be the same as those in the examples shown in Figures 1 to 5 or in the example shown in Figure 6.

[0087] The input pad 220 shown in Figure 8, like the example shown in Figure 6, has a light-shielding layer 223 positioned between the lower surface 21d of the outer plate 21 and the upper surface 31b of the light-diffusing portion 31. The light-shielding layer 223 is a portion molded from a resin material that has light-shielding properties. That is, the light-shielding layer 223 is formed by supplying molten resin to a mold corresponding to the shape of the light-shielding layer 223, and then cooling and solidifying this resin.

[0088] As shown in Figure 8, the light-shielding layer 223 has multiple light-transmitting openings 223a. Each of the multiple light-transmitting openings 223a constitutes one of the multiple light-emitting sections E1 to E5. The outer plate 21 has multiple protrusions 221m that project downward on its lower surface 21d. Each of the multiple protrusions 221m is fitted inside the multiple light-transmitting openings 223a. The height of the lower end 221n of the protrusions 221m is lower than the position of the upper surface 223e of the light-shielding layer 223. With such protrusions 221m, as explained with reference to Figure 7, the range in which the user can see the light-emitting sections E1 to E5 can be increased.

[0089] In the example shown in Figure 8, unlike the example shown in Figure 6, the height of the lower end 221n of the protrusion 221m is lower than the midpoint between the upper surface 223e and the lower surface 223p of the light-shielding layer 223. That is, the length of the lower end 221n in the vertical direction is greater than half the distance between the upper surface 223e and the lower surface 223p of the light-shielding layer 223.

[0090] [Upper slope] As shown in Figure 8, the inner surface of the light-transmitting aperture 223a has an upper edge 223g, a lower edge 223h, and an intermediate portion 223i, similar to the light-transmitting aperture 123a shown in Figure 6. The inner surface of the light-transmitting aperture 223a has an upper slope 223ma·223mb between the upper edge 223g and the intermediate portion 223i. The upper slope 223ma·223mb is formed such that its width in the front-to-back direction (Y1-Y2 direction) of the light-transmitting aperture 123a gradually increases upward. With such an upper slope 223ma·223mb, it is possible to prevent the visibility of light emitted diagonally backward from the light-diffusing portion 31 from being restricted by the upper edge of the light-transmitting aperture 223a.

[0091] As shown in Figure 8, the upper slope 223ma·223mb has an upper part 223ma and a lower part 223mb. The angle θ2 of the upper part 223ma with respect to the vertical line and the angle θ3 of the lower part 223mb with respect to the vertical line are different. More specifically, the angle θ2 of the upper part 223ma is larger than the angle θ3 of the lower part 223mb. With such an upper slope 223ma·223mb, the angle of the light rays directed diagonally backward from the light diffusion part 31 can be further increased. In other words, the range (viewing angle) in which the user can see the light-emitting parts E1 to E5 can be further increased. In addition, the distance W3 between the corner of the upper end 32g of the light-shielding rear wall part 32f and the upper slope 223ma·223mb can be secured, and as a result, the light-shielding layer 223 made of resin can be simplified.

[0092] In the example shown in Figure 8, the upper slope 223ma·223mb is formed around the entire circumference of the light-transmitting opening 223a. That is, the upper slope 223ma·223mb is formed over the entire circumferential direction (360 degrees) surrounding the vertical line passing through the light-transmitting opening 223a. Unlike the example shown in Figure 8, the upper slope 223ma·223mb may be formed only on the rear portion of the light-transmitting opening 123a.

[0093] [Lower slope] As shown in Figure 8, the inner surface of the light-transmitting aperture 223a has a downward slope 223na·223nb between the lower edge 223h and the middle portion 223i. The downward slope 223na·223nb is formed such that the width of the light-transmitting aperture 123a in the front-to-back direction gradually increases downwards. Such a downward slope 223na·223nb can increase the angle of light rays that travel diagonally backward from the front of the light-diffusing portion 31.

[0094] In the example shown in Figure 8, a downward slope 223na is formed on the front side of the inner circumferential surface of the light-transmitting aperture 223a, and a downward slope 223nb is formed on the rear side of the inner circumferential surface of the light-transmitting aperture 223a. The angle θ4 between the vertical line and the downward slope 223na is greater than the angle between the vertical line and the downward slope 223nb. With this structure, as shown by the solid line L3 in Figure 6, the angle of the light rays that travel diagonally backward from the front of the light-diffusing section 31 can be further increased. Note that, unlike the example shown in Figure 8, the rear downward slope 223nb does not necessarily have to be formed.

[0095] [others] Furthermore, the input devices proposed in this disclosure are not limited to the input device 10 described above.

[0096] For example, the input device 10 has multiple light diffusion sections 31. However, the number of light diffusion sections 31 may be just one. In this case, the length of the light diffusion section 31 may correspond to the total length of the multiple light diffusion sections 31 shown in Figure 2B, etc.

[0097] Furthermore, the frame light-shielding portion 32 and the light-diffusing portion 31 of the input pad frame 30 may be formed separately. In this case, the light-diffusing portion 31 may be attached to the frame light-shielding portion 32 by claws or hooks (engaging portions).

[0098] Furthermore, the light-shielding layers 23, 123, and 223 may be formed on the upper surface 31b (exiting surface) of the light-diffusing portion 31, rather than on the lower surface 21d of the outer plate 21.

[0099] [summary] (1) The input device proposed in this disclosure is made of a light-transmitting material and comprises an outer plate having a first surface that constitutes a part of the outer surface of the input device and a second surface that faces away from the first surface in a first direction which is the thickness direction of the outer plate; a plurality of light sources; one or more light-diffusing portions that receive light from the plurality of light sources and have a third surface that faces the second surface of the outer plate in the first direction; a light-shielding layer formed on one of the second surface of the outer plate and the third surface of the one or more light-diffusing portions, and having a plurality of openings that each constitute a plurality of light-emitting portions; and a control device that selectively causes the plurality of light sources to emit light according to information presented to the user.

[0100] (2) In the input device of (1), a circuit board is attached to the second surface of the outer plate. The second surface of the outer plate includes a first region facing the third surface of the one or more light-diffusing portions and a second region to which the circuit board is attached. The light-shielding layer extends from the first region to the second region.

[0101] (3) In the input device of (1) or (2), the plurality of light sources emit light in a second direction which is along the second surface toward the one or more light diffusing portions. A light-shielding wall portion made of a light-shielding material is arranged on the side opposite to the plurality of light sources, with the one or more light diffusing portions in between. The second surface of the outer plate has a first region facing the third surface of the one or more light diffusing portions and a third region adjacent to the end of the light-shielding wall portion. The light-shielding layer extends from the first region to the third region.

[0102] (4) In the input device of (3), the outer plate has a recess where the end of the light-shielding wall portion is positioned. The light-shielding layer is formed on the inner surface of the recess of the outer plate, which is the third region.

[0103] (5) In the input devices of (1) to (4), a frame (input pad frame) is attached to the second surface of the outer plate, and the frame has the plurality of light diffusing parts and a partition made of light-shielding material between two adjacent light diffusing parts. The plurality of light sources face each of the plurality of light diffusing parts.

[0104] (6) In the input devices of (1) to (5), the distance between two adjacent light-emitting units is less than the length of one light-emitting unit.

[0105] (7) In the input devices of (1) to (6), the plurality of light-emitting parts have the same shape.

[0106] (8) The input device according to (1) to (7) has a circuit board attached to the second surface of the outer plate. The second surface of the outer plate includes a first region facing the third surface of the one or more light diffusing portions and a second region to which the circuit board is attached. The first region is defined between the second region and the outer edge of the outer plate. The plurality of light-emitting portions are arranged in a direction along the outer edge of the outer plate. The length of the light-emitting portions in the direction along the outer edge is smaller than the width of the light-emitting portions in the direction perpendicular to the outer edge.

[0107] (9) In the input devices of (1) to (8), the outer plate and the frame constitute an input pad.

[0108] In the input devices of (10)(1) to (9), the light-shielding layer is formed on the second surface of the outer plate.

[0109] (11) In any input device of (1) to (10), the outer plate has a plurality of protrusions on the second surface that are fitted into a plurality of openings formed in the light-shielding layer.

[0110] (12) In any input device of (1) to (11), each of the plurality of openings formed in the light-shielding layer has a first edge at one end in the first direction, a second edge at the opposite end in the first direction, and an intermediate portion which is the portion between the one end and the other end, and at least one of the plurality of openings has a first inclined surface on its inner circumferential surface which is located between the intermediate portion and the first edge and is inclined with respect to the first direction.

[0111] In the input device of (13)(12), the first edge is the edge of the plurality of openings on the exterior plate side.

[0112] In the input device of (14)(13), the at least one opening has a second inclined surface on its inner circumferential surface that is located between the intermediate portion and the second edge portion and is inclined with respect to the first direction.

Claims

1. An input device, An exterior plate formed of a light-transmitting material, the exterior plate having a first surface that constitutes a part of the outer surface of the input device, and a second surface that faces in a first direction which is the thickness direction of the exterior plate and is opposite to the first surface, Multiple light sources, The exterior plate has a third surface facing the second surface in the first direction, and one or more light-diffusing portions that receive light from the plurality of light sources, A light-shielding layer formed on one of the second surface of the exterior plate and the third surface of the one or more light-diffusing portions, having a plurality of openings that each constitute a plurality of light-emitting portions, A control device that selectively emits light from the multiple light sources according to the information presented to the user, It has, The light-shielding layer is formed on the second surface of the exterior plate, The exterior plate is an input device having a plurality of protrusions on its second surface that are fitted into a plurality of openings formed in the light-shielding layer.

2. The exterior plate has a circuit board attached to the second surface, The second surface of the exterior plate includes a first region facing the third surface of the one or more light-diffusing portions and a second region to which the circuit board is attached. The light-shielding layer extends from the first region to the second region. An input device as described in claim 1.

3. The plurality of light sources emit light toward the one or more light diffusing sections in a second direction which is along the second surface. A light-shielding wall made of a light-shielding material is positioned on the side opposite to the multiple light sources, with the one or more light-diffusing sections in between. The second surface of the exterior plate has a first region facing the third surface of the one or more light-diffusing portions and a third region adjacent to the end of the light-shielding wall portion. The light-shielding layer extends from the first region to the third region. An input device as described in claim 1.

4. The exterior plate has a recess formed therein where the end of the light-shielding wall portion is positioned. The light-shielding layer is formed on the inner surface of the recess of the outer plate, which is the third region. The input device described in claim 3.

5. A frame is attached to the second surface of the exterior plate. The frame has the plurality of light-diffusing sections and a partition section formed of a light-shielding material between two adjacent light-diffusing sections. The multiple light sources are each facing the multiple light diffusing sections. An input device as described in claim 1.

6. The distance between two adjacent light-emitting parts is less than the length of a single light-emitting part. An input device as described in claim 1.

7. The aforementioned multiple light-emitting parts have the same shape. An input device as described in claim 1.

8. The exterior plate has a circuit board attached to the second surface, The second surface of the exterior plate includes a first region facing the third surface of the one or more light-diffusing portions and a second region to which the circuit board is attached. The first region is defined between the second region and the outer edge of the exterior plate, The plurality of light-emitting units are arranged in a direction along the outer edge of the exterior plate, The length of the light-emitting portion in the direction along the outer edge is smaller than the width of the light-emitting portion in the direction perpendicular to the outer edge. An input device as described in claim 1.

9. The exterior plate and the frame constitute an input pad. The input device described in claim 5.

10. Each of the plurality of openings formed in the light-shielding layer has a first edge at one end in the first direction, a second edge at the opposite end in the first direction, and an intermediate portion which is the portion between the one end and the opposite end. At least one of the plurality of openings has a first inclined surface on its inner circumferential surface that is located between the intermediate portion and the first edge portion and is inclined with respect to the first direction. An input device as described in claim 1.

11. The first edge portion is the edge portion of the plurality of openings on the exterior plate side. An input device as described in claim 10.

12. The at least one opening has a second inclined surface on its inner circumferential surface that is located between the intermediate portion and the second edge portion and is inclined with respect to the first direction. An input device as described in claim 11.

Images