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

Input devices

[0001] The present disclosure relates to input devices.

[0002] The following Patent Documents disclose input devices used for game operations: These input devices have a plurality of light-emitting portions on their upper surfaces.

[0003] When multiple users play a game simultaneously, a number may be assigned to each user. The input device disclosed in Patent Document 1 has a light diffusing member disposed behind the touchpad. The number assigned to each user is displayed by selectively illuminating multiple positions (light-emitting portions) defined on the light diffusing member. In Patent Document 2, holes are formed in the corners of an exterior plate that forms the surface of the touchpad. A light diffusing member is formed below this hole. When light from a light source is irradiated onto the light diffusing member, the light passes through the hole and emerges above the exterior plate.

[0004] U.S. Patent No. 11,534,682 U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2022 / 040567

[0005] In the structure of Patent Document 1, the light diffusing member is disposed along the entire rear edge of the exterior plate of the touchpad, which makes it difficult to control the light-emitting range of the light diffusing member. For example, the light-emitting range may be significantly expanded in the left-right direction. This places significant restrictions on the position of the light-emitting unit (the distance between two adjacent light sources).

[0006] In the structure of Patent Document 2, since it is necessary to form a hole in the exterior plate through which light passes, the area that lights up (the light-emitting portion) is limited by the size of the hole. Since a large hole deteriorates the appearance of the input device, it may be difficult to form a hole of a size that is easy for the user to see.

[0007] The input device proposed in the present disclosure includes an exterior plate formed of a light-transmitting material and having a first surface that forms a part of the outer surface of the input device and a second surface facing the opposite side to the first surface in a first direction that is the thickness direction of the exterior plate; a plurality of light sources; one or more light diffusion sections that have a third surface facing the second surface of the exterior plate in the first direction and receive light from the plurality of light sources; a light-shielding layer that is formed on either the second surface of the exterior plate or the third surface of the one or more light diffusion sections and has a plurality of openings that respectively form a plurality of light-emitting sections; and a control device that selectively causes the plurality of light sources to emit light in accordance with information to be presented to a user.

[0008] This input device allows for greater freedom in the position and shape of the light-emitting unit, improving the visibility of the light-emitting unit for the user. Furthermore, because the light-blocking layer is positioned between the light diffusion unit and the exterior plate, the light-emitting unit (the opening in the light-blocking layer) is less visible when the light source is off. This prevents the user from misinterpreting the information presented to them through the light-emitting unit.

[0009] 1 is a plan view showing an example of an input device proposed in the present disclosure. FIG. 1B is an enlarged view of a main portion of the input device shown in FIG. 1A. FIG. 2A is an exploded perspective view of the input pad. FIG. 2B is a view of the components of the input pad viewed from above. FIG. 2C is an enlarged view of the rear portion of the input pad frame shown in FIG. 2A. FIG. 3A is an exploded perspective view of the input pad. FIG. 3C is a view of the components of the input pad viewed from below. FIG. 3C is an enlarged view of the rear portion of the exterior plate shown in FIG. 3A. FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along line IV-IV shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of an input device. FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the input device. The cutting position in the drawing is the same as in FIG. 4. FIG. 5 is a view for explaining the function of the protrusions formed on the exterior plate. FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing yet another modified example of the input device. The cutting position in the drawing is the same as in FIG. 4.

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

[0011] 1A and the like are referred to as the front and rear, the X1 and X2 directions are referred to as the right and left, and the Z1 and Z2 directions are referred to as the up and down directions.

[0012] The input device 10 is used as an input device for an information processing device having functions such as a game program execution function, a video image playback function, and a communication function via the Internet. The input device 10 incorporates various sensors (such as an acceleration sensor and a gyro sensor) used to detect the attitude and movement of the input device 10, a battery, and the like. The input device 10 is capable of communicating with the information processing device, and transmits to the information processing device signals corresponding to operations performed by a user on the input device 10 and signals corresponding to the attitude 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 Members] The input device 10 is, for example, a device that a user holds and operates with both hands. As shown in FIG. 1A , the input device 10 has a right holdable portion 10R for holding with the right hand and a left holdable portion 10L for holding with the left hand. Input members are disposed on the upper surfaces of the right holdable portion 10R and the left holdable portion 10L. For example, four input buttons 11 located at the vertices of a diamond are disposed on the upper surface of the right holdable portion 10R. A cross-shaped directional key 12 is disposed on the upper surface of the left holdable portion 10L. Each of the right holdable portion 10R and the left holdable portion 10L may have an input button 15 protruding forward.

[0014] 1A, each of the right and left held portions 10R and 10L has a grip portion G extending rearward from an area on the top surface where the input members (in the example of the input device 10, the directional key 12 and four input buttons 11) are arranged. The input device 10 has a center portion 10M located between the right and left held portions 10R and 10L. The grip portions G of the held portions 10R and 10L extend rearward from the rear ends of the center portions 10M.

[0015] 1A, the input device 10 has an input pad 20, which 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 located between the input members (specifically, four input buttons 11) disposed on the upper surface of the right held portion 10R and the input members (specifically, the directional key 12) disposed on the upper surface of the left held portion 10L. The input device 10 further has input sticks 17R and 17L disposed behind the input pad 20.

[0016] The shape of the input device proposed in this 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 grip portions G extending rearward.

[0017] As another example, the input device may be one that can be operated with one hand. For example, the input device may be rod-shaped. In this case, the input device may have an input pad 20 at a position that can be operated with the thumb of one hand.

[0018] Furthermore, the types and arrangement of input members are not limited to those in 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 directional key 12, and the input sticks 17R and 17L may be changed as appropriate.

[0019] [Exterior Member] The input device 10 has an exterior member that constitutes its exterior. The exterior member has a case 40 that houses a main circuit board and a battery provided in the input device 10. The case 40 may be composed of, for example, an upper case and a lower case that are combined vertically. The main circuit board is a circuit board on which a communication device 53 (see FIG. 5) that transmits signals indicating operation of the input members to an information processing device such as a game device, a control device 51 (see FIG. 5) that controls charging and discharging of the 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 FIG. 2A, the input pad 20 has an exterior plate 21, a circuit board 22, and an input pad frame 30. The exterior 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 exterior plate 21 is made of a light-transmitting material. Light from light sources S1 to S5 (see FIG. 3A), which will be described later, passes through the exterior plate 21 to the upper side, illuminating the light-emitting elements E1 to E5 (see FIG. 1B). The circuit board 22 is attached to the lower surface 21d of the exterior plate 21. The circuit board 22 is, for example, glued to the exterior 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 exterior plate 21.

[0021] As shown in FIG. 1A , the input pad 20 is disposed, for example, at the front of the top surface of the central portion 10M. An accommodation opening 40a is formed in the case 40 (upper case). The input pad 20 is disposed inside this accommodation opening 40a (see FIGS. 1A and 4 ). The exterior plate 21 may have a portion 21b (see FIG. 3A ) that constitutes the front surface of the central portion 10M in addition to a portion 21a (see FIG. 3A ) that constitutes the top surface of the central portion 10M. In this case, the accommodation opening 40a of the case 40 in which the input pad 20 is disposed may open not only upward but also forward. The arrangement and shape of the input pad 20 are not limited to those of the input device 10. For example, the position of the input pad 20 may be spaced rearward from the front edge of the central portion 10M.

[0022] A circuit that functions as a touch sensor may be formed on the upper surface of the circuit board 22 (the surface that contacts the exterior plate 21) to detect the position of a user's finger when the finger touches the exterior plate 21. This circuit may have a plurality of detection electrodes aligned in the front-to-back and left-to-right directions. A plurality of IC (Integrated Circuit) chips that function as a touch sensor drive circuit, 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] [Movement of Input Pad] The input pad 20 can move up and down and may function as a push button. The input device 10 may have a switch 24 (see FIG. 3A ) for detecting the up and down movement (push operation) of the input pad 20. As shown in FIG. 3A , the switch 24 is attached, for example, to approximately the center of the lower surface of the circuit board 22. 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 that constitutes the exterior of the input device 10 is disposed below the input pad 20 (below the input pad frame 30) and houses a main frame (not shown). When the input pad 20 is pressed and lowered, the movable portion 24a (see FIG. 3A ) of the switch 24 abuts against the main frame, and a change in the state of the switch 24 is detected. The position pressed by the user can be detected based on the output signal (a signal corresponding to the finger position) of the touch sensor formed on the circuit board 22 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 that is pushed downward may be returned to its initial position by the elastic force of this elastic member.

[0026] 3A, the input pad frame 30 covers the lower surface of the circuit board 22 and is attached to the exterior plate 21. An opening 32j is formed in the input pad frame 30. The switch 24 is exposed below the input pad frame 30 through this opening 32j and faces the main body frame that is arranged below the input pad frame 30.

[0027] The arrangement of the switch 24 is not limited to the example shown in Fig. 3A etc. For example, the switch 24 may be attached to a main frame (not shown) or a main circuit board that is arranged below the input pad 20, rather than to the circuit board 22. When the input pad 20 is pressed downward, the input pad 20 (e.g., the input pad frame 30) may press the switch 24.

[0028] The exterior plate 21, circuit board 22, and input pad frame 30 (specifically, light diffusion unit 31, described later) are fixed to one another and move up and down together. Therefore, even when the input pad 20 moves up and down, the relative positional relationship between the light diffusion unit 31, light sources S1 to S5, light-shielding layer 23, and exterior plate 21, described later, does not change. This makes it possible to suppress changes in the brightness and size of the light-emitting units E1 to E5 (see FIG. 1B).

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

[0030] As shown in FIG. 1B , the input device 10 has multiple light-emitting units E1 to E5. The light-emitting units E1 to E5 are provided in positions that are easily visible when the user is holding the input device 10. For example, the light-emitting units E1 to E5 are provided on an exterior plate 21 that constitutes the input device 10. In the input device 10 proposed in the present disclosure, the exterior 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 aligned in the left-right direction along the rear edge 21 c of the input pad 20. The light-emitting unit E1 is provided, for example, in the center, with the light-emitting units E2 and E3 provided on the left and right of the light-emitting unit E1, and the light-emitting units E4 and E5 provided on the left and right of the light-emitting units E1, E2, and E3, respectively.

[0031] The input device 10 (a control device 51, described later; see FIG. 5) lights up the light-emitting elements E1 to E5 in a number corresponding to the user number. The light-emitting elements E1 to E5 may be turned on according to the following rules, for example: User number "1": Only the light-emitting element E1 is turned on, and the rest are turned off. User number "2": Only the light-emitting elements E2 and E3 are turned on, and the rest are turned off. User number "3": Only the light-emitting elements E1, E2, and E3 are turned on, and the rest are turned off. Alternatively, only the light-emitting elements E1, E4, and E5 are turned on, and the rest are turned off. User number "4": Only the light-emitting elements E2, E3, E4, and E5 are turned on, and the rest are turned off. Note that the game may be playable by five people. In this case, all of the light-emitting elements E1 to E5 may be turned on in the input device for user number "5."

[0032] 3A, the input device 10 has a plurality of light sources S1 to S5. The light sources S1 to S5 may be mounted on the lower surface of the circuit board 22. The light sources S1 to S5 may be aligned in the left-right direction along the rear edge of the circuit board 22. Specifically, the light sources S1 to S5 are light-emitting diodes (LEDs). Each of the light sources S1 to S5 may be an LED that emits white light by combining LED elements of three colors (red, green, and blue), or may be a single-color LED.

[0033] [Light Diffusion Section] The input device 10 has a light diffusion section 31 for guiding light from the light sources S1 to S5 to the light-emitting sections E1 to E5. In the example of FIG. 2B , multiple light diffusion sections 31 are provided. The light sources S1 to S5 emit light toward the light diffusion section 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 (the 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 FIG. 4) that receives light from the light sources S1 to S5.

[0034] The light diffusion portion 31 is made of, for example, a resin containing light-reflecting particles. When light from the light sources S1 to S5 enters the front surface 31a of the light diffusion portion 31, the light is diffused inside the light diffusion portion 31, causing the entire light diffusion portion 31 to glow.

[0035] 3A and other examples, the number of light sources S1 to S5 (five in the illustrated example) 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, light from one light source may be guided by a light guide tube to two light diffusion units 31 (for example, the light diffusion units 31 corresponding to the light-emitting units E2 and E3).

[0036] 1B and the like, the number of light-emitting units is five, but the number is not limited to five. The number of light-emitting units does not need to match the number of light sources, and may be three or four. The number of light-emitting units may be more than five.

[0037] [Light-Shielding Layer] The upper surface 31b (emission surface, see FIG. 4) of the light diffusion unit 31 faces the lower surface 21d of the exterior plate 21 in the up-down direction. As shown in FIGS. 3B and 4, a light-shielding layer 23 is formed on the lower surface 21d of the exterior plate 21. For example, a light-shielding ink (e.g., black ink) is applied (printed) on the lower surface 21d of the exterior plate 21 to form the light-shielding layer 23. After the ink is applied, the ink at the position of the light-transmitting opening 23a may be removed, for example, with a laser, to form the light-transmitting opening 23a. When the light-shielding ink is applied to the lower surface 21d of the exterior plate 21, the position of the light-transmitting opening 23a may be masked. In this way, the light-shielding layer 23 having the light-transmitting opening 23a is formed without using a laser.

[0038] 3B and 4, a plurality of light-transmitting openings 23a are formed in the light-shielding layer 23. The positions of the plurality of light-transmitting openings 23a correspond to the plurality of light diffusion sections 31, respectively. That is, the light-transmitting openings 23a are located directly above the light diffusion sections 31. The size of each light-transmitting opening 23a is smaller than the upper surface 31b of each light diffusion section 31. Light emitted from the upper surface 31b of the light diffusion section 31 passes through the light-transmitting openings 23a and the exterior plate 21, and exits from the upper surface of the exterior plate 21, lighting up the light-emitting sections E1 to E5. That is, the plurality of light-transmitting openings 23a respectively constitute the plurality of light-emitting sections E1 to E5.

[0039] In this way, the light-emitting portions E1 to E5 are formed by the light-transmitting openings 23a of the light-shielding layer 23, which increases the degree of freedom in terms of the position and shape of the light-emitting portions E1 to E5 compared to a structure in which the light from the light diffusion portion 31 is directly transmitted through the exterior plate 21 without providing the light-shielding layer 23. As a result, for example, multiple light-emitting portions E1 to E5 can be arranged closely in a narrow area.

[0040] 3B, the distance D1 between two adjacent light-transmitting openings 23a (light-emitting units E1 to E5) is smaller than the length L1 of each light-transmitting opening 23a in the left-right direction. The width of each light-transmitting opening 23a in the front-to-rear direction is also smaller than the length L1 of each light-transmitting opening 23a in the left-to-right direction. Due to the shape and position of the light-transmitting openings 23a, the light-emitting units E1 to E5 can be arranged in an area with a small width in the front-to-rear direction that is secured along the edge of the circuit board 22 (touch sensor).

[0041] Furthermore, because the light-emitting portions E1 to E5 are formed by the light-transmitting openings 23a, the degree of freedom in the shape of the light diffusion portion 31 is ensured. As a result, the light diffusion portion 31 can be designed to have a shape that is easy to mold. For example, as shown in FIG. 2B , the light diffusion portion 31 may be formed to have a rectangular shape in a plan view. On the other hand, the light-transmitting openings 23a of the light-shielding layer 23 may be smaller than the light diffusion portion 31, elongated in the left-right direction, and generally oval.

[0042] Furthermore, since the light-shielding layer 23 is formed on the exterior plate 21 rather than on the light diffusion section 31, the positions of the light-emitting sections E1 to E5 on the exterior plate 21 can be maintained with high precision without depending on the tolerance between the exterior plate 21 and the light diffusion section 31.

[0043] In the input device 10, the light-shielding layer 23 is located between the light diffusion unit 31 and the exterior plate 21, making the positions of the light-emitting units E1-E5 (light-transmitting openings 23a) difficult to see when the light sources S1-S5 are off. This allows for effective communication of information to the user in use cases where the user recognizes information assigned to them based on the position and number of the light-emitting units E1-E5. For example, the user can correctly recognize their assigned user number. If the light-shielding layer 23 were formed on the top surface of the exterior plate 21, the user would be able to see the exposed light-transmitting openings 23a, which could make it difficult to distinguish between the lit and unlit light-emitting units E1-E5. In contrast, in the input device 10, the light-shielding layer 23 is located between the light diffusion unit 31 and the exterior plate 21, allowing the user to accurately distinguish between the lit and unlit light-emitting units E1-E5.

[0044] As described above, the exterior plate 21 is formed of a light-transmitting material. The exterior plate 21 may be colored. For example, the exterior plate 21 may be made of a light-transmitting material that is colored black. In other words, the exterior plate 21 may be made of a translucent material. This more effectively prevents the light-transmitting opening 23a from being seen when the light sources S1 and S2 are not turned on.

[0045] 3B, the plurality of light-transmitting openings 23a (light-emitting portions E1 to E5, see FIG. 1B) may have the same shape, which makes it easier to form the light-transmitting openings 23a than when the individual light-emitting portions E1 to E5 have different shapes.

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

[0047] 3A and 3B, an engagement portion 21k may be formed between two adjacent light-transmitting openings 23a. The input pad frame 30 and the exterior plate 21 may be coupled to each other by this engagement portion 21k.

[0048] [Positional Relationship Between the Light-Shielding Layer and the Circuit Board] As shown in FIG. 4 , the lower surface 21d of the exterior 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 unit 31 in the up-down direction. The facing region A1 is an area corresponding to the width of the upper surface 31b (emission surface) of the light diffusion unit 31 in the front-to-rear direction. A gap may be provided 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 can prevent light from leaking from the gap between the front region A2 and the facing region A1. The light-shielding layer 23 is formed so that at least a portion of it includes either the leading edge or the trailing edge of the facing region A1.

[0049] 4, the front portion 23b of the light-shielding layer 23 may overlap the circuit board 22. This makes it possible to suppress light leakage even if the position of the circuit board 22 is shifted forward, for example.

[0050] 4, by ensuring a gap between the front region A2 and the facing region A1, the position of the light-transmitting opening 23a (light-emitting units E1 to E5) can be spaced rearward from the rear edge of the circuit board 22. As a result, when the light-emitting units E1 to E5 are lit, the position of the rear edge of the circuit board 22 cannot be seen.

[0051] The front region A2, where the circuit board 22 is attached, occupies most of the underside 21d of the exterior plate 21. The facing region A1, where the multiple light-transmitting openings 23a (light-emitting portions E1 to E5) are provided, is a region that is elongated in the left-right direction (a region with a narrow width in the front-to-rear direction) along the rear edge 21c of the exterior plate 21. The shape of each light-transmitting opening 23a is elongated in the left-to-right direction to match the shape of the facing region A1 (the width in the front-to-rear direction is narrower than the width in the left-to-right direction). This allows for effective use of the narrow region behind the circuit board 22 (touch sensor).

[0052] [Molding of Frame Light-Shielding Portion and Light Diffusion Portion] As shown in Fig. 2B, the light diffusion portion 31 may be molded integrally with the input pad frame 30. The input pad frame 30 has a frame light-shielding portion 32 made of a resin with light-shielding properties. The frame light-shielding portion 32 may be made of, for example, black resin. In Fig. 2B, the patterned portion is the light diffusion portion 31, and the other portion is the frame light-shielding portion 32. The light diffusion portion 31 and the frame light-shielding portion 32 are formed by two-color molding. The light diffusion portion 31 and the frame light-shielding portion 32 are bonded together by the chemical properties of their materials.

[0053] 2B, the plurality of light diffusion sections 31 are aligned in the left-right direction along the rear edge 21c (see FIG. 2A) of the exterior plate 21. The frame light-shielding section 32 has a partition wall section 32a located between two adjacent light diffusion sections 31. With this structure, the partition wall section 32a can prevent the light from two adjacent light sources S1 to S5 from mixing.

[0054] On the other hand, as shown in Fig. 3B, there is no gap in the light-shielding layer 23 between two adjacent light-transmitting openings 23a. The light-shielding layer 23 is continuous from its right end 23c (see Fig. 3A) to its left end 23d (see Fig. 3A). This makes it possible to effectively suppress light leakage.

[0055] 3A and the like, a plurality of light-shielding layers 23 aligned in the left-right direction may be formed on the exterior plate 21. The positions of the plurality of light-shielding layers 23 may correspond to the positions of the plurality of light diffusion portions 31, respectively. In this case, one light-transmitting opening 23 a may be formed in each of the light-shielding layers 23.

[0056] [Storage Chamber Wall] As shown in FIG. 2B, the frame light-shielding portion 32 has a storage chamber wall 32b that houses each of the multiple light sources S1 to S5. The storage chamber wall 32b has a side wall portion 32c extending rearward from the partition wall portion 32a and a front wall portion 32d located on the opposite side of the light sources S1 to S5 from the light diffusion portion 31. The storage chamber wall 32b also has a bottom portion 32e (see FIG. 4) that covers the underside of the light sources S1 to S5. The storage chamber wall 32b is located below the circuit board 22. Each of the light sources S1 to S5 is surrounded by the light diffusion portion 31, the partition wall portion 32a, and the storage chamber wall 32b. This effectively prevents light from leaking outside the input device 10.

[0057] 4, the frame light-shielding portion 32 has a light-shielding rear wall 32f on the opposite side of the light sources S1 to S5 across the plurality of light diffusion portions 31. The light-shielding rear wall 32f covers the entire rear surface 31c of the light diffusion portion 31. The light-shielding rear wall 32f can prevent light from the light sources S1 to S5 from leaking backward.

[0058] 4, the underside 21d of the exterior plate 21 has a facing region A1 facing 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 can effectively prevent light leakage from unintended regions.

[0059] As shown in Fig. 4, a recess 21e may be formed in the rear edge 21c of the exterior plate 21. The upper end of the light-shielding rear wall 32f may be located inside the recess 21e. More specifically, the upper end of the light-shielding rear wall 32f may be located higher than the lower surface 21d of the exterior plate 21 and further forward than the rear end of the exterior plate 21. The rear region A3 in which the light-shielding layer 23 is formed may be formed inside the recess 21e. This can more effectively suppress light leakage to the rear side of the input pad 20.

[0060] 4, the recess 21e has a rear surface 21h facing backward and a lower surface 21i facing downward. The light-shielding layer 23 may be formed on both the rear surface 21h and the lower surface 21i. Therefore, the positions of the light-shielding layers 23 formed on the rear surface 21h and the lower surface 21i are 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] Alternatively, the light-shielding layer 23 may be formed only on the rear surface 21 h and not on the lower surface 21 i. As yet another example, the light-shielding layer 23 may not be formed on both the rear surface 21 h and the lower surface 21 i.

[0062] 4, a through-hole 32h may be formed in the bottom 32e of the storage chamber wall 32b. This through-hole 32h can facilitate the formation (two-color molding) of the light diffusion portion 31 and the frame light-shielding portion 32. For example, after the frame light-shielding portion 32 is molded with resin, a mold is inserted into this through-hole 32h, and material for the light diffusion portion 31 is supplied between the mold, the rear light-shielding wall portion 32f, and the left and right partition walls 32a. In this way, the light diffusion portion 31 can be molded.

[0063] This through hole 32h opens toward the opposite side from the exterior 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 the frame. Therefore, even if the light from the light sources S1 to S5 passes through the through hole 32h and leaks toward the inside of the case 40, the impact on the appearance of the input device 10 is suppressed.

[0064] As described above, a substantially rectangular housing opening 40a is formed in the case 40 of the input device 10. The input pad 20 is disposed inside the housing opening 40a (see FIG. 4). As shown in FIG. 4, the lower portion 32i of the rear light-shielding wall portion 32f protrudes rearward. The edge of the housing opening 40a is located between the lower portion 32i of the rear light-shielding wall portion 32f and the rear edge 21c of the exterior plate 21. This defines the range of movement of the input pad 20 in the up-down direction.

[0065] 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, etc. The control device 51 includes a processor, and the storage device 52 includes storage elements such as memory. The communication device 53 is a communication interface such as a wireless LAN module or a Bluetooth (registered trademark) module, and performs wired or wireless data communication with an information processing device (e.g., a game device).

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

[0067] Fig. 6 is a cross-sectional view showing a modified example of the input device proposed in the present disclosure. The cutting position is the same as the example shown in Fig. 4. In Fig. 6, the same elements as those in the examples shown in Figs. 1 to 5 are given the same reference numerals. Below, differences between the example shown in Fig. 6 and the examples shown in Figs. 1 to 5 will be mainly described. Items not described in the example shown in Fig. 6 may be the same as the examples shown in Fig. 4, etc.

[0068] 2A and the like, the input pad 120 shown in Fig. 6 has an exterior plate 21, a circuit board 22, and an input pad frame 30. The input pad frame 30 has a light diffusion portion 31 and a frame light-shielding portion 32 (see Fig. 4).

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

[0070] The light-shielding layer 123 is formed on either the lower surface 21d of the exterior plate 21 or the upper surface 31b of the light diffusion portion 31. In the example shown in FIG. 6 , the light-shielding layer 123 is formed on the lower surface 21d of the exterior plate 21. The light-shielding layer 123 may be molded integrally with the exterior plate 21, for example, by two-color molding (double molding). Two-color molding is a method of sequentially injecting two different resin materials into a mold to obtain a molded product. In the example shown in FIG. 6 , a light-transmitting molten resin (material of the exterior plate 21) and a light-shielding molten resin (material of the light-shielding layer 123) are sequentially injected into the mold to form a molded product including the light-shielding layer 123 and the exterior plate 21. The light-shielding layer 23 is heat-welded to the lower surface 21d of the exterior plate 21. With such a light-blocking layer 123, the positions of the light-emitting portions E1 to E5 on the exterior plate 21 can be maintained with high precision, regardless of the tolerance between the exterior plate 21 and the light diffusion portion 31.

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

[0072] As shown in FIG. 6, a plurality of light-transmitting openings 123a are formed in the light-shielding layer 123. The positions of the light-transmitting openings 123a correspond to the plurality of light diffusion sections 31, respectively. That is, the light-transmitting openings 123a are located directly above the light diffusion sections 31. The size of each light-transmitting opening 123a is smaller than the upper surface 31b of each light diffusion section 31. Light emitted from the upper surface 31b of the light diffusion section 31 passes through the light-transmitting openings 123a and the exterior plate 21, and exits from the upper surface of the exterior plate 21, lighting up the light-emitting sections E1 to E5 ( FIG. 1B ). That is, the plurality of light-transmitting openings 123a respectively constitute the plurality of light-emitting sections E1 to E5.

[0073] In this way, the light-emitting portions E1 to E5 are formed by the light-transmitting openings 123a of the light-shielding layer 123, which allows for greater freedom in the position and shape of the light-emitting portions E1 to E5 compared to a structure in which the light from the light diffusion portion 31 passes directly through the exterior plate 21 without providing the light-shielding layer 123. As a result, for example, multiple light-emitting portions E1 to E5 can be arranged closely together in a small area. Furthermore, because the light-emitting portions E1 to E5 are formed by the light-transmitting openings 123a, freedom in the shape of the light diffusion portion 31 is ensured. As a result, the light diffusion portion 31 can be designed into a shape that is easy to mold.

[0074] 6, the exterior plate 21 has a plurality of protrusions 21m protruding downward on its lower surface 21d. The plurality of protrusions 21m are fitted inside the plurality of light-transmitting openings 123a, respectively. The height of the lower ends 21n of the protrusions 21m is lower than the position of the upper surface 123e of the light-shielding layer 123. Such protrusions 21m can increase the range over which the user can view the light-emitting elements E1 to E5.

[0075] Fig. 7 is a diagram for explaining such a function of the convex portion 21m. The inclined surfaces 123m and 123n shown in Fig. 6, which will be described later, are omitted from Fig. 7. In Fig. 7, the solid line L1 indicates an example of a light ray emerging from the upper surface 31b of the light diffusion unit 31 when the convex portion 21m is formed. In Fig. 7, the dashed line L2 indicates a light ray emerging when the convex portion 21m is not formed.

[0076] When using the input device, a user may view the input pad 120 from the diagonally rear side. As shown by the dashed line L2, if the convex portion 21m is not formed, light emitted diagonally rearward from the upper surface 31b of the light diffusion portion 31 may strike the rear edge of the upper end of the light-transmitting opening 123a. In this case, the user cannot see this light. In contrast, as shown by the solid line L1, if the convex portion 21m is formed, light emitted in the same direction is refracted at the lower end 21n of the convex portion 21m and reaches the user's pupil without striking the rear edge of the upper end of the light-transmitting opening 123a. In other words, the user can see this light. In this way, the convex portion 21m can increase the range over which the user can see the light-emitting portions E1 to E5.

[0077] The lower ends 21n of the convex portions 21m do not reach the height of the lower surface of the light-shielding layer 123. In other words, the insides of the light-transmitting openings 123a are not filled with the convex portions 21m. This makes it possible to prevent the thickness of the exterior plate 21 from increasing excessively at the positions of the convex portions 21m. As a result, it is possible to prevent the occurrence of recesses on the upper surface of the exterior plate 21 due to shrinkage of the resin material during molding of the exterior plate 21.

[0078] 6, the light-transmitting opening 123a has an upper edge 123g and a lower edge 123h at both ends in the thickness direction of the exterior plate 21. The upper edge 123g is an edge located at the end on the exterior plate 21 side, and the lower edge 123g is an edge located at the end on the light diffusion section 31 side. The inner circumferential surface of the light-transmitting opening 123a has an intermediate section 123i between the upper edge 123g and the lower edge 123h. The shapes of the light-emitting sections E1 to E5 in a plan view of the input pad 120 are determined by the shape of the light-transmitting opening 123a at the intermediate section 123i.

[0079] As shown in FIG. 6 , the inner peripheral surface of the light-transmitting opening 123a has an upper slope 123m between the upper edge 123g and the middle portion 123i. The upper slope 123m is formed so that the width W1 of the light-transmitting opening 123a in the front-to-rear direction (Y1-Y2 direction) gradually increases upward. This upper slope 123m prevents the upper edge of the light-transmitting opening 123a from restricting visibility of light emitted diagonally rearward from the light diffusion unit 31, as shown by the solid line L3 in FIG. 6 . In other words, the range (viewing angle) in which the user can view the light-emitting units E1 to E5 can be further increased.

[0080] In the example shown in FIG. 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 around the entire circumferential direction (360 degrees) surrounding the vertical line V1 passing through the light-transmitting opening 123a. When using the input device, the user views the input pad 120 from the diagonally rear side. Therefore, unlike the example shown in FIG. 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 surface of the light-transmitting opening 123a (the portion facing the upper slope 123m) may be a vertical surface perpendicular to the exterior plate 21.

[0081] [Downward Slope] As shown in FIG. 6 , the inner peripheral surface of the light-transmitting opening 123a has a downward slope 123n between the lower edge 123h and the middle portion 123i. The downward slope 123n is formed so that the width W2 of the light-transmitting opening 123a in the front-to-rear direction gradually increases downward. This downward slope 123n can increase the angle of the light ray directed diagonally backward from the front of the light diffusion unit 31 (the angle θ1 between the vertical line V1 and the solid line L3), as shown by the solid line L3 in FIG. 6 . In other words, the range (viewing angle) in which the user can see the light-emitting units 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 around the entire circumferential direction (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 surface perpendicular to the exterior plate 21.

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

[0084] Furthermore, as described above, the input device may have the inclined surfaces 123m and 123n or the convex portion 120m only in some (for example, only one) of the plurality of light-transmitting openings 123a corresponding to the plurality of light-emitting portions E1 to E5, respectively.

[0085] [Light-Shielding Rear Wall] As shown in FIG. 6 , in the input pad 120, the frame light-shielding portion 32 also has a light-shielding rear wall 32f on the opposite side of the light diffusers 31 from the light sources S1 to S5. The light-shielding rear wall 32f covers the entire rear surface 31c of the light diffusers 31. The upper end 32g of the light-shielding rear wall 32f protrudes above the height of the lower surface 123p of the light-shielding layer 123 (the height of the lower edge 123h of the light-transmitting opening 123a). This effectively prevents light from the light diffusers 31 from leaking from the rear side of the input pad 120. The light-shielding layer 123 passes between the upper end 32g of the light-shielding rear wall 32f and the exterior plate 21, reaching the rear edge of the exterior plate 21.

[0086] Fig. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing yet another modified example of the input device proposed in the present disclosure. The cutting position is the same as the example shown in Fig. 4. In Fig. 8, the same elements as those in the example shown in Fig. 6 are given the same reference numerals. Below, differences between the example shown in Fig. 8 and the example shown in Fig. 6 will be mainly described. Items not described in the example shown in Fig. 8 may be the same as those in the examples shown in Figs. 1 to 5 or the example shown in Fig. 6.

[0087] 6, the input pad 220 shown in Fig. 8 has a light-shielding layer 223 disposed between the lower surface 21d of the exterior plate 21 and the upper surface 31b of the light diffusion portion 31. The light-shielding layer 223 is a portion molded from a resin material having light-shielding properties. That is, the light-shielding layer 223 is formed by supplying molten resin into a mold corresponding to the shape of the light-shielding layer 223, and then cooling and solidifying the resin.

[0088] As shown in FIG. 8, a plurality of light-transmitting openings 223a are formed in the light-shielding layer 223. The plurality of light-transmitting openings 223a respectively constitute a plurality of light-emitting elements E1 to E5. The exterior plate 21 has a plurality of protrusions 221m protruding downward on its lower surface 21d. The plurality of protrusions 221m are fitted inside the plurality of light-transmitting openings 223a, respectively. The height of the lower ends 221n of the protrusions 221m is lower than the position of the upper surface 223e of the light-shielding layer 223. As described with reference to FIG. 7, such protrusions 221m can increase the range in which the user can see the light-emitting elements E1 to E5.

[0089] 8, unlike the example shown in Fig. 6, the height of the lower end 221n of the convex portion 221m is lower than the midpoint between the upper surface 223e and the lower surface 223p of the light-shielding layer 223. In other words, the length of the lower end 221n in the up-down 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 peripheral surface of the light-transmitting opening 223a has an upper edge 223g, a lower edge 223h, and an intermediate portion 223i, similar to the light-transmitting opening 123a shown in Figure 6. The inner peripheral surface of the light-transmitting opening 223a has upper slopes 223ma and 223mb between the upper edge 223g and the intermediate portion 223i. The upper slopes 223ma and 223mb are formed so that the width of the light-transmitting opening 123a in the front-to-rear direction (Y1-Y2 direction) gradually increases upward. Such upper slopes 223ma and 223mb prevent the upper edge of the light-transmitting opening 223a from restricting visibility of light emitted diagonally rearward from the light diffusion portion 31.

[0091] As shown in FIG. 8 , the upper slopes 223ma and 223mb have an upper portion 223ma and a lower portion 223_mb. The angle θ2 of the upper portion 223ma relative to the vertical line is different from the angle θ3 of the lower portion 223mb relative to the vertical line. More specifically, the angle θ2 of the upper portion 223ma is greater than the angle θ3 of the lower portion 223mb. These upper slopes 223ma and 223mb can further increase the angle of light rays directed diagonally backward from the light diffusion unit 31. In other words, the range (viewing angle) in which the user can view the light-emitting units E1 to E5 can be further increased. Furthermore, the distance W3 between the corner of the upper end 32g of the rear light-shielding wall 32f and the upper slopes 223ma and 223mb can be ensured, thereby facilitating the formation of the resin light-shielding layer 223.

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

[0093] 8, the inner peripheral surface of the light-transmitting opening 223a has lower slopes 223na and 223nb between the lower edge 223h and the middle portion 223i. The lower slopes 223na and 223nb are formed so that the width of the light-transmitting opening 123a in the front-to-rear direction gradually increases downward. These lower slopes 223na and 223nb can increase the angle of light rays that travel diagonally backward from the front of the light diffusion unit 31.

[0094] In the example shown in FIG. 8 , a lower slope 223na is formed on the front side of the inner circumferential surface of the light-transmitting opening 223a, and a lower slope 223nb is formed on the rear side of the inner circumferential surface of the light-transmitting opening 223a. The angle θ4 between the vertical line and the lower slope 223na is larger than the angle between the vertical line and the lower slope 223nb. With this structure, as shown by the solid line L3 in FIG. 6 , the angle of the light ray directed diagonally rearward from the front of the light diffusion unit 31 can be further increased. Note that, unlike the example shown in FIG. 8 , the rear lower slope 223nb does not necessarily have to be formed.

[0095] [Others] Note that the input device proposed in the present disclosure is not limited to the input device 10 described above.

[0096] For example, the input device 10 includes a plurality of light diffusion units 31. However, the number of light diffusion units 31 may be one. In this case, the length of the light diffusion unit 31 may correspond to the overall length of the plurality of light diffusion units 31 shown in FIG. 2B and the like.

[0097] The frame light-shielding portion 32 and the light diffusion portion 31 of the input pad frame 30 may be formed separately. In this case, the light diffusion portion 31 may be attached to the frame light-shielding portion 32 by means of nails or hooks (engagement portions).

[0098] The light-blocking layers 23 , 123 , and 223 may be formed on the upper surface 31 b (light-emitting surface) of the light diffusion section 31 instead of on the lower surface 21 d of the exterior plate 21 .

[0099] [Summary] (1) The input device proposed in the present disclosure includes an exterior plate formed of a light-transmitting material and having a first surface that forms a part of the outer surface of the input device and a second surface facing the opposite side to the first surface in a first direction that is the thickness direction of the exterior plate; a plurality of light sources; one or more light diffusion units that have a third surface facing the second surface of the exterior plate in the first direction and receive light from the plurality of light sources; a light-shielding layer that is formed on either the second surface of the exterior plate or the third surface of the one or more light diffusion units and has a plurality of openings that respectively form a plurality of light-emitting units; and a control device that selectively causes the plurality of light sources to emit light in accordance with information to be presented to a user.

[0100] (2) In the input device of (1), a circuit board is attached to the second surface of the exterior plate. The second surface of the exterior plate includes a first region facing the third surface of the one or more light diffusion units 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 a direction along the second surface, toward the one or more light diffusion units. A light-shielding wall unit made of a light-shielding material is disposed on the opposite side of the plurality of light sources, sandwiching the one or more light diffusion units. The second surface of the exterior plate has a first region facing the third surface of the one or more light diffusion units and a third region adjacent to an end of the light-shielding wall unit. The light-shielding layer extends from the first region to the third region.

[0102] (4) In the input device of (3), the exterior plate has a recess in which an end of the light-shielding wall is disposed, and the light-shielding layer is formed on the inner surface of the recess of the exterior plate, which is the third region.

[0103] (5) In the input device according to any one of (1) to (4), a frame (input pad frame) is attached to the second surface of the exterior plate, and the frame has the plurality of light diffusion sections and a partition section formed of a light-blocking material between two adjacent light diffusion sections. The plurality of light sources face the plurality of light diffusion sections, respectively.

[0104] (6) In the input device according to any one of (1) to (5), the distance between two adjacent light-emitting elements among the plurality of light-emitting elements is shorter than the length of one light-emitting element.

[0105] (7) In the input device according to any one of (1) to (6), the plurality of light-emitting portions have the same shape.

[0106] (8) The input device according to any one of (1) to (7), further comprising a circuit board attached to the second surface of the exterior plate. The second surface of the exterior plate includes a first region facing the third surface of the one or more light diffusion units and a second region to which the circuit board is attached. The first region is defined between the second region and an outer edge of the exterior plate. The plurality of light-emitting units are aligned in a direction along the outer edge of the exterior plate. The length of the light-emitting unit in the direction along the outer edge is smaller than the width of the light-emitting unit in a direction perpendicular to the outer edge.

[0107] (9) In the input device of any one of (1) to (8), the exterior plate and the frame form an input pad.

[0108] (10) In the input device according to any one of (1) to (9), the light-shielding layer is formed on the second surface of the exterior plate.

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

[0110] (12) In any of the input devices (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 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 surface that is located between the intermediate portion and the first edge and is inclined with respect to the first direction.

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

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

Claims

1. 1. An input device comprising: a covering plate formed of a light-transmitting material and having a first surface constituting a part of an outer surface of the input device and a second surface facing the opposite side to the first surface in a first direction which is a thickness direction of the covering plate; Multiple light sources; one or more light diffusion units having a third surface facing the second surface of the exterior plate in the first direction, the light diffusion units receiving 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 diffusion units, the light-shielding layer having a plurality of openings formed therein, each of the openings constituting a plurality of light-emitting units; a control device that selectively causes the plurality of light sources to emit light in accordance with information to be presented to a user; and the light-shielding layer is formed on the second surface of the exterior plate; The exterior plate has a plurality of protrusions on the second surface that fit into a plurality of openings formed in the light-shielding layer.

2. a circuit board attached to the second surface of the exterior plate; the second surface of the exterior plate includes a first region facing the third surface of the one or more light diffusion units and a second region to which the circuit board is attached; The light-shielding layer extends from the first region to the second region.

10. The input device of claim 1.

3. the plurality of light sources emit light in a second direction, which is a direction along the second surface, toward the one or more light diffusion units; a light-shielding wall portion made of a light-shielding material is disposed on the opposite side of the one or more light diffusion portions from the plurality of light sources, the second surface of the exterior plate has a first region facing the third surface of the one or more light diffusion units and a third region adjacent to an end of the light-shielding wall unit, The light-shielding layer extends from the first region to the third region.

10. The input device of claim 1.

4. a recess in which an end of the light-shielding wall portion is disposed is formed in the exterior plate; The light-shielding layer is formed on the inner surface of the recess of the exterior plate, which is the third region.

4. An input device according to claim 3.

5. a frame attached to the second surface of the exterior plate; the frame has the plurality of light diffusion sections and a partition section formed of a light-blocking material between two adjacent light diffusion sections, The plurality of light sources face the plurality of light diffusion portions, respectively.

10. The input device of claim 1.

6. The distance between two adjacent light-emitting elements among the plurality of light-emitting elements is shorter than the length of one light-emitting element.

10. The input device of claim 1.

7. The plurality of light-emitting portions have the same shape 10. The input device of claim 1.

8. a circuit board attached to the second surface of the exterior plate; the second surface of the exterior plate includes a first region facing the third surface of the one or more light diffusion units and a second region to which the circuit board is attached; the first region is defined between the second region and an outer edge of the exterior plate; the plurality of light emitting units are aligned in a direction along the outer edge of the exterior plate, The length of the light emitting portion in a direction along the outer edge is smaller than the width of the light emitting portion in a direction perpendicular to the outer edge.

10. The input device of claim 1.

9. The exterior plate and the frame form an input pad.

6. An input device according to claim 5.

10. each of the plurality of openings formed in the light-shielding layer has a first edge portion at one end in the first direction, a second edge portion at an opposite end in the first direction, and an intermediate portion that is a portion between the one end and the opposite end; At least one of the plurality of openings has, on its inner circumferential surface, a first inclined surface that is located between the intermediate portion and the first edge portion and is inclined with respect to the first direction.

10. The input device of claim 1.

11. The first edge portion is an edge portion of the plurality of openings on the exterior plate side.

11. An input device according to claim 10.

12. The at least one opening has, on its inner circumferential surface, a second inclined surface that is located between the middle portion and the second edge portion and is inclined with respect to the first direction.

12. An input device according to claim 11.