Input device

Abstract

This input device comprises: a housing; an operation member that is provided in the housing and that is movable to a plurality of operation positions; a moveable contact member that is provided in the housing and that comprises a magnetic body; a first fixed contact and second fixed contact that are provided opposite from the moveable contact member inside the housing; and a magnet body that is provided so as to capable of moving along with movement of the operation member inside the housing. The moveable contact member has a fulcrum that is constant contact with the first fixed contact and a first moveable contact that is opposite from the second fixed contact. The moveable contact member rocks about a fulcrum due to the magnetic force of the magnet body when the magnet body has moved along with movement of the operation member to a prescribed operation position, such that the first moveable contact contacts the second fixed contact.

Description

Input device

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

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a slide switch including a slide member that slides in a certain direction, a slider provided on the slide member, and a fixed contact portion provided on a sliding surface in a case where the slider slides.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2011-44342

[0004] However, in the slide switch of Patent Document 1, when moisture, foreign matter, etc. enter the case, corrosion and foreign matter biting of the slider and the fixed contact portion may occur, and there is a possibility of poor contact between the slider and the fixed contact portion.

[0005] An input device according to an embodiment includes a housing, an operating member provided in the housing and movable to a plurality of operating positions, a movable contact member made of a magnetic material provided in the housing, a first fixed contact and a second fixed contact provided in the housing so as to face the movable contact member, and a magnet body provided in the housing so as to be movable along with the movement of the operating member. The movable contact member has a fulcrum that always contacts the first fixed contact and a first movable contact that faces the second fixed contact. When the magnet body moves as the operating member moves to a predetermined operating position, the movable contact member swings around the fulcrum by the magnetic force of the magnet body, so that the first movable contact contacts the second fixed contact.

[0006] According to the input device according to an embodiment, it is possible to suppress poor contact of each movable contact and each fixed contact.

[0007] External perspective view of the input device according to the first embodiment External perspective view of the input device according to the first embodiment Partially exploded perspective view of the input device according to the first embodiment (with the frame removed) Exploded perspective view of the input device according to the first embodiment Perspective cross-sectional view of the input device according to the first embodiment showing a cross-section in the YZ plane Perspective cross-sectional view of the input device according to the first embodiment showing a cross-section in the XZ plane Cross-sectional view of the input device according to the first embodiment (first switch-on state) Cross-sectional view of the input device according to the first embodiment (second switch-on state) Cross-sectional view of the input device according to the second embodiment (switch-off state) Cross-sectional view of the input device according to the second embodiment (first switch-on state) External perspective view of the input device according to the third embodiment External perspective view of the input device according to the third embodiment (C) 3. An external perspective view of the input device according to the third embodiment (without showing the movable contact member and with the movable contact member disassembled). An external perspective view of the housing of the input device according to the third embodiment. A perspective view of the housing of the input device according to the third embodiment. A cross-sectional view of the input device according to the third embodiment (with the operating member moved). A cross-sectional view of the input device according to the fourth embodiment. A cross-sectional view of the input device according to the fourth embodiment (with the operating member moved). A cross-sectional view of the input device according to the fifth embodiment. A cross-sectional view of the input device according to the fifth embodiment. An external perspective view of the input device according to the sixth embodiment. An external perspective view of the input device according to the sixth embodiment. A perspective view of the input device according to the sixth embodiment (with the frame removed). A perspective view of the input device according to the sixth embodiment (with the frame removed). A perspective view of the input device according to the sixth embodiment (with the switch on).

[0008] An embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. For convenience, in the following description, the Z-axis direction will be defined as the vertical direction, the X-axis direction as the front-back direction, and the Y-axis direction as the left-right direction. However, the positive Z-axis direction will be defined as upward, the positive X-axis direction as forward, and the positive Y-axis direction as rightward.

[0009] [First Embodiment] (Overview of Input Device 100) Figures 1 and 2 are external perspective views of the input device 100 according to the first embodiment. The input device 100 shown in Figure 1 is a small input device that is mounted on various electronic devices. As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the input device 100 is thin in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) and has a roughly rectangular parallelepiped shape with the left-right direction (X-axis direction) as its longitudinal direction.

[0010] The input device 100 comprises a housing 110 that is generally rectangular in shape. The top, front, rear, left, and right sides of the housing 110 are covered by a frame 130.

[0011] The operating portion 122 of the operating member 120 protrudes forward (in the positive X-axis direction) from the opening 110A formed in the front side wall (positive X-axis side) of the housing 110. The input device 100 is a so-called slide switch that allows the operator to slide the operating portion 122 of the operating member 120 in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction).

[0012] When the operator slides the operating part 122 of the operating member 120 to the left (negative Y-axis direction), the input device 100 enters a first switch-on state in which the first terminal 115A and the second terminal 115B, which are provided protruding from the lower surface of the housing 110, become electrically connected to each other.

[0013] Furthermore, when the operator slides the operating part 122 of the operating member 120 to the right (positive Y-axis direction), the input device 100 enters a second switch-on state in which the first terminal 115A and the third terminal 115C, which are provided protruding from the lower surface of the housing 110, become electrically connected to each other.

[0014] (Configuration of the input device 100) Figure 3 is a partially exploded perspective view of the input device 100 according to the first embodiment (with the frame 130 removed). Figure 4 is an exploded perspective view of the input device 100 according to the first embodiment. Figure 5 is a perspective cross-sectional view showing a cross-section of the input device 100 according to the first embodiment in the YZ plane. Figure 6 is a perspective cross-sectional view showing a cross-section of the input device 100 according to the first embodiment in the XZ plane.

[0015] As shown in Figures 3 to 6, the input device 100 comprises a housing 110, an operating member 120, a frame 130, a magnet body 140, a pair of left and right yokes 150, a movable contact member 160, and a sealing member 170.

[0016] The housing 110 is a box-shaped component made of resin with a hollow structure. The housing 110 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape with the front-to-back direction (X-axis direction) as the shorter direction and the left-to-right direction (Y-axis direction) as the longer direction.

[0017] The housing 110 has a first housing space 111 that is recessed downwards from the top surface. The first housing space 111 is a rectangular space with the front-to-back direction (X-axis direction) as the shorter side and the left-to-right direction (Y-axis direction) as the longer side when viewed from above. The first housing space 111 houses the operating member 120, the magnet body 140, and a pair of left and right yokes 150.

[0018] Furthermore, the housing 110 has a second housing space 112 that is recessed from the rear to the front. The second housing space 112 is a rectangular space with the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) as the shorter direction and the horizontal direction (Y-axis direction) as the longer direction when viewed from the rear. The movable contact member 160 is housed in the second housing space 112. The second housing space 112 is located on the rear side (negative X-axis side) of the first housing space 111, but is isolated from the first housing space 111 by the presence of an isolation wall 112A between the two.

[0019] The back bottom surface of the second containment space 112 (i.e., the isolation wall 112A) has a first fixed contact 113A in the center in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction), a second fixed contact 113B at the left end, and a third fixed contact 113C at the right end. The first fixed contact 113A, the second fixed contact 113B, and the third fixed contact 113C are all vertical, planar contacts made of a conductive material.

[0020] Furthermore, a rectangular opening 110A is formed in the front side wall (positive X-axis side) of the housing 110, which is used to allow the operating portion 122 of the operating member 120 to protrude forward (positive X-axis direction) and to allow the operating portion 122 of the operating member 120 to move left and right (Y-axis direction).

[0021] Furthermore, a first terminal 115A, a second terminal 115B, and a third terminal 115C are provided protruding downward from the rear portion (negative X-axis side) of the lower surface of the housing 110. The first terminal 115A is located in the center in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction). The second terminal 115B is located on the left side (negative Y-axis side) in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction). The third terminal 115C is located on the right side (positive Y-axis side) in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction).

[0022] The first terminal 115A is provided integrally with the first fixed contact 113A, that is, it is electrically connected to the first fixed contact 113A. The second terminal 115B is provided integrally with the second fixed contact 113B, that is, it is electrically connected to the second fixed contact 113B. The third terminal 115C is provided integrally with the third fixed contact 113C, that is, it is electrically connected to the third fixed contact 113C.

[0023] The operating member 120 is a resin member that is slidable by the operator in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction). The operating member 120 is slidably mounted in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction) inside the first housing space 111 of the housing 110. The operating member 120 has a base portion 121, an operating portion 122, and a holding portion 123.

[0024] The base portion 121 has a rectangular horizontal portion when viewed from above (positive Z-axis direction) and a vertical portion that hangs down from the front end (positive X-axis side end) of the horizontal portion (negative Z-axis direction).

[0025] The operating section 122 is a columnar (for example, a rectangular columnar) portion that protrudes forward (in the positive X-axis direction) from the center of the vertical portion of the base 121 in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction). By protruding forward (in the positive X-axis direction) from the opening 110A of the housing 110, the operating section 122 can receive sliding operations from the operator.

[0026] The holding portion 123 is provided projecting downward (in the negative Z-axis direction) from the center of the horizontal portion of the base portion 121 in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction), and is the portion that holds the magnet body 140. Specifically, the holding portion 123 has a rectangular frame shape when viewed from the left-right direction (Y-axis direction), and the magnet body 140 is held by being fitted inside this rectangular frame shape.

[0027] The frame 130 is a metal component that covers the top, front, rear, left, and right sides of the housing 110. The frame 130 is formed by processing a metal plate using methods such as press working. The frame 130 covers the top surface of the housing 110 with its horizontal portion, thereby closing the upper opening of the first housing space 111 of the housing 110. In addition, rectangular openings 131 are formed on each of the left and right sides (vertical portions) of the frame 130. Claw portions 119 provided on the side of the housing 110 are fitted into each opening 131. In this way, the frame 130 is fixed to the housing 110 while covering it.

[0028] The magnet body 140 is held inside the first housing space 111 of the housing 110 by the holding portion 123 of the operating member 120. The magnet body 140 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape with its longitudinal direction in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction). The magnet body 140 is a so-called permanent magnet, with the left half (negative Y-axis side) magnetized to one of the poles, the north pole and the south pole, and the right half (positive Y-axis side) magnetized to the other pole. Because the magnet body 140 is held by the holding portion 123 of the operating member 120, it slides together with the operating member 120 in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction).

[0029] A pair of left and right yokes 150 are provided on the left and right outer sides of the magnet body 140, which is held by the holding portion 123 of the operating member 120, inside the first housing space 111 of the housing 110. Each yoke 150 is an example of a "magnetic member," made of a magnetic material, and has a rectangular parallelepiped shape with its longitudinal direction in the front-to-back direction (X-axis direction). The left yoke 150 (negative Y-axis side) is positioned opposite the left side (negative Y-axis side) of the magnet body 140. The right yoke 150 (negative Y-axis side) is positioned opposite the right side (positive Y-axis side) of the magnet body 140. Each yoke 150 extends rearward (negative X-axis direction) so that its rear side (negative X-axis side) is close to the second housing space 112 of the housing 110.

[0030] The movable contact member 160 is a plate-shaped member extending in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction). The movable contact member 160 is positioned vertically inside the second housing space 112 of the housing 110. The movable contact member 160 is formed using a conductive magnetic material.

[0031] The movable contact member 160 has a pivot point 161 that is convex forward (positive X-axis direction) at its center in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction). The pivot point 161 is in constant contact with the first fixed contact point 113A provided inside the second housing space 112 and serves as the pivot center of the movable contact member 160.

[0032] Furthermore, the movable contact member 160 has a first movable contact 162 at its left end that is convex forward (in the positive X-axis direction). The first movable contact 162 is positioned opposite the second fixed contact 113B, which is located inside the second housing space 112, and can move toward and away from the second fixed contact 113B as the movable contact member 160 swings.

[0033] Furthermore, the movable contact member 160 has a second movable contact 163 at its right end that is convex forward (in the positive X-axis direction). The second movable contact 163 is positioned opposite a third fixed contact 113C, which is located inside the second housing space 112, and can move toward and away from the third fixed contact 113C as the movable contact member 160 swings.

[0034] The sealing member 170 is a sheet-like member that seals the second housing space 112 of the housing 110. The sealing member 170 is formed using an elastic material (for example, rubber, silicone, etc.). When viewed from the rear (negative X-axis direction) in plan view, the sealing member 170 has a rectangular shape that is larger than the second housing space 112. With the sealing member 170 covering the second housing space 112, the outer peripheral portion outside the second housing space 112 is bonded to the rear side (negative X-axis side) of the housing 110 by any bonding method (for example, laser welding, etc.).

[0035] (Operation of Input Device 100) Next, the operation of the input device 100 according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 7 and 8. Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the input device 100 according to the first embodiment (first switch-on state). Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view of the input device 100 according to the first embodiment (second switch-on state).

[0036] <First Switch-On State> As shown in Figure 7, when the operator slides the operating member 120 to the left (negative Y-axis direction) and the operating member 120 slides to the left end (a predetermined first operating position), the magnet body 140 held by the operating member 120 slides together with the operating member 120 to the left end, and the left side surface of the magnet body 140 comes into close proximity to the right side surface of the yoke 150 on the left side (negative Y-axis side).

[0037] As a result, a magnetic circuit is formed between the magnet body 140 and the movable contact member 160 via the left side (negative Y-axis side) yoke 150. Through this magnetic circuit, the magnetic force of the magnet body 140 is transmitted to the rear surface of the left side (negative Y-axis side) yoke 150, and the left side (negative Y-axis side) portion of the movable contact member 160, which faces the rear surface of the left side (negative Y-axis side) yoke 150, is attracted to the left side (negative Y-axis side) yoke 150.

[0038] Therefore, the movable contact member 160 swings around the pivot point 161 such that the left side (negative Y-axis side) moves forward (positive X-axis direction), and the first movable contact 162, which is provided at the left end of the movable contact member 160, comes into contact with the second fixed contact 113B.

[0039] As a result, the first fixed contact 113A and the second fixed contact 113B become electrically connected via the movable contact member 160. That is, the input device 100 becomes electrically connected to the first terminal 115A connected to the first fixed contact 113A and to the second terminal 115B connected to the second fixed contact 113B, thereby entering the first switch-on state.

[0040] At this time, the operating member 120 is held in a slid state to its left end (a predetermined first operating position) by the magnetic attraction force generated between the magnet body 140 held by the operating member 120 and the yoke 150 on the left side (negative Y-axis side).

[0041] <Second Switch-On State> On the other hand, as shown in Figure 8, when the operator slides the operating member 120 to the right (positive Y-axis direction) and the operating member 120 slides to the right end (a predetermined second operating position), the magnet body 140 held by the operating member 120 slides to the right end together with the operating member 120, and the right side surface of the magnet body 140 comes into close proximity to the left side surface of the yoke 150 on the right side (positive Y-axis side).

[0042] As a result, a magnetic circuit is formed between the magnet body 140 and the movable contact member 160 via the right-side (positive Y-axis) yoke 150. Through this magnetic circuit, the magnetic force of the magnet body 140 is transmitted to the rear surface of the right-side (positive Y-axis) yoke 150, and the right-side (positive Y-axis) portion of the movable contact member 160, which faces the rear surface of the right-side (negative Y-axis) yoke 150, is attracted to the right-side (positive Y-axis) yoke 150.

[0043] Therefore, the movable contact member 160 swings around the pivot point 161 such that the right side (positive Y-axis side) moves forward (positive X-axis direction), and the second movable contact 163 provided at the right end of the movable contact member 160 comes into contact with the third fixed contact 113C.

[0044] As a result, the first fixed contact 113A and the third fixed contact 113C are electrically connected via the movable contact member 160. That is, in the input device 100, the first terminal 115A connected to the first fixed contact 113A and the third terminal 115C connected to the third fixed contact 113C are electrically connected to each other, and the second switched-on state is achieved.

[0045] At this time, the operating member 120 is held in a state of being slid to the right end portion (a predetermined second operating position) by the magnetic attractive force generated between the magnet body 140 held by the operating member 120 and the yoke 150 on the right side (positive Y-axis side).

[0046] As described above, in the input device 100 according to the first embodiment, when the magnet body 140 moves in the first direction (left direction) as the movable contact member 160 moves to the predetermined first operating position of the operating member 120, the first movable contact 162 contacts the second fixed contact 113B by swinging about the fulcrum 161 due to the magnetic force of the magnet body 140. When the magnet body 140 moves in the second direction (right direction) as the operating member 120 moves to the predetermined second operating position, the second movable contact 163 contacts the third fixed contact 113C by swinging about the fulcrum 161 due to the magnetic force of the magnet body 140.

[0047] Thereby, the input device 100 according to the first embodiment can switch between the first switched-on state and the second switched-on state by swinging the movable contact member 160 by the magnetic force of the magnet body 140. Further, the input device 100 according to the first embodiment can stably maintain the state in which the first movable contact 162 contacts the second fixed contact 113B and the state in which the second movable contact 163 contacts the third fixed contact 113C by the magnetic attractive force due to the magnetic force of the magnet body 140.

[0048] Also, in the input device 100 according to the first embodiment, the magnet body 140 is held by the operating member 120 and moves together with the operating member 120.

[0049] Thereby, the input device 100 according to the first embodiment can move the magnet body 140 in the same direction as the operating member 120 with a relatively simple configuration.

[0050] Furthermore, the input device 100 according to the first embodiment has a housing 110 which includes a first housing space 111 in which an operating member 120, a magnet body 140, and a yoke 150 are provided, a second housing space 112 in which a first fixed contact 113A, a second fixed contact 113B, a third fixed contact 113C, and a movable contact member 160 are provided, and an isolation wall 112A that separates the first housing space 111 and the second housing space 112.

[0051] Furthermore, the input device 100 according to the first embodiment further includes a sealing member 170 that seals the opening of the second accommodation space 112 that is open to the outside.

[0052] As a result, the input device 100 according to the first embodiment can completely seal the second housing space 112 where each movable contact and each fixed contact is provided, thereby preventing moisture, foreign matter, etc. from entering the second housing space 112 from the outside and from the first housing space 111. Therefore, the input device 100 according to the first embodiment can suppress corrosion and foreign matter jamming of each movable contact and each fixed contact, and can suppress poor contact of each movable contact and each fixed contact.

[0053] Furthermore, in the input device 100 according to the first embodiment, when the operating member 120 slides to the left end and the right end, the magnetic attraction force generated between the magnet body 140 and the yoke 150 allows the sliding of the operating member 120 to be rapidly accelerated and rapidly stopped. As a result, the input device 100 according to the first embodiment can provide the operator with a click sensation when the operating member 120 slides to the left end and the right end.

[0054] Furthermore, in the input device 100 according to the first embodiment, when the operating member 120 starts sliding in opposite directions from the left end and the right end, the force attempting to break the magnetic attraction force generated between the magnet body 140 and the yoke 150 causes the operating load of the operating member 120 to increase rapidly, and then the operating load of the operating member 120 to decrease rapidly. As a result, the input device 100 according to the first embodiment can provide the operator with a click sensation when the operating member 120 starts sliding in opposite directions from the left end and the right end.

[0055] [Second Embodiment] The following describes the changes from the input device 100 according to the first embodiment to the input device 100-2 according to the second embodiment. Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view of the input device 100-2 according to the second embodiment (switch off state). Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view of the input device 100-2 according to the second embodiment (first switch on state).

[0056] As shown in Figures 9 and 10, the input device 100-2 according to the second embodiment further includes a central yoke 151 (an example of a "central magnetic member") located in the central part of the housing 110 in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction) and between the magnet body 140 and the first fixed contact 113A.

[0057] <Switch Off State> In the input device 100-2 according to the second embodiment, as shown in Figure 9, when the operating member 120 is located in the center in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction), the magnet body 140 held by the operating member 120 is also located in the center in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction). At this time, the overlapping area between the magnet body 140 and the central yoke 151 when viewed from the front-back direction (X-axis direction) is maximized, and therefore the magnetic force transmitted from the magnet body 140 to the central yoke 151 is maximized.

[0058] As a result, a magnetic circuit is formed between the magnet body 140 and the movable contact member 160 via the central yoke 151 and the first fixed contact 113A. Through this magnetic circuit, the magnetic force of the magnet body 140 is transmitted to the first fixed contact 113A, and the pivot point 161 of the movable contact member 160, which faces the first fixed contact 113A, is attracted to the first fixed contact 113A.

[0059] Here, as shown in Figure 9, in the input device 100-2 according to the second embodiment, the pivot point 161 of the movable contact member 160 has a vertical planar shape, similar to the first fixed contact 113A. Therefore, the movable contact member 160 maintains a parallel state parallel to the YZ plane when the pivot point 161 is attracted to the first fixed contact 113A, and the first movable contact 162 provided at the left end of the movable contact member 160 is not in contact with the second fixed contact 113B, and the second movable contact 163 provided at the right end of the movable contact member 160 is not in contact with the third fixed contact 113C.

[0060] As a result, the first fixed contact 113A does not conduct to either the second fixed contact 113B or the third fixed contact 113C. In other words, the input device 100-2 is switched off because the first terminal 115A connected to the first fixed contact 113A does not conduct to either the second terminal 115B connected to the second fixed contact 113B or the third terminal 115C connected to the third fixed contact 113C.

[0061] At this time, the operating member 120 is maintained in a position in the center in the left-right direction (Y-axis direction) by the magnetic attraction force generated between the magnet body 140 held by the operating member 120 and the central yoke 151 on the right side (positive Y-axis side).

[0062] <First Switch-On State> In the input device 100-2 according to the second embodiment, as shown in Figure 10, when the operator slides the operating member 120 to the left (negative Y-axis direction) and the operating member 120 slides to the left end (a predetermined first operating position), the magnet body 140 held by the operating member 120 slides to the left end together with the operating member 120, and the left side surface of the magnet body 140 comes into close proximity to the right side surface of the yoke 150 on the left side (negative Y-axis side).

[0063] As a result, a magnetic circuit is formed between the magnet body 140 and the movable contact member 160 via the left side (negative Y-axis side) yoke 150. Through this magnetic circuit, the magnetic force of the magnet body 140 is transmitted to the rear surface of the left side (negative Y-axis side) yoke 150, and the left side (negative Y-axis side) portion of the movable contact member 160, which faces the rear surface of the left side (negative Y-axis side) yoke 150, is attracted to the left side (negative Y-axis side) yoke 150.

[0064] Therefore, the movable contact member 160 swings around the pivot point 161 such that the left side (negative Y-axis side) moves forward (positive X-axis direction), and the first movable contact 162, which is provided at the left end of the movable contact member 160, comes into contact with the second fixed contact 113B.

[0065] As a result, the first fixed contact 113A and the second fixed contact 113B become electrically connected via the movable contact member 160. That is, the input device 100 becomes electrically connected to the first terminal 115A connected to the first fixed contact 113A and to the second terminal 115B connected to the second fixed contact 113B, thereby entering the first switch-on state.

[0066] At this time, the operating member 120 is held in a slid state to its left end (a predetermined first operating position) by the magnetic attraction force generated between the magnet body 140 held by the operating member 120 and the yoke 150 on the left side (negative Y-axis side).

[0067] <Second Switch-On State> Conversely, in the input device 100-2 according to the second embodiment, when the operator slides the operating member 120 to the right (positive Y-axis direction) and the operating member 120 slides to the right end (a predetermined second operating position), the magnet body 140 held by the operating member 120 slides together with the operating member 120 to the right end, and the right side surface of the magnet body 140 comes into close proximity to the left side surface of the yoke 150 on the right side (positive Y-axis side).

[0068] As a result, a magnetic circuit is formed between the magnet body 140 and the movable contact member 160 via the right-side (positive Y-axis) yoke 150. Through this magnetic circuit, the magnetic force of the magnet body 140 is transmitted to the rear surface of the right-side (positive Y-axis) yoke 150, and the right-side (positive Y-axis) portion of the movable contact member 160, which faces the rear surface of the right-side (positive Y-axis) yoke 150, is attracted to the right-side (positive Y-axis) yoke 150.

[0069] Therefore, the movable contact member 160 swings around the pivot point 161 such that the right side (positive Y-axis side) moves forward (positive X-axis direction), and the second movable contact 163 provided at the right end of the movable contact member 160 comes into contact with the third fixed contact 113C.

[0070] As a result, the first fixed contact 113A and the third fixed contact 113C become electrically connected via the movable contact member 160. That is, the input device 100 enters a second switch-on state, with the first terminal 115A connected to the first fixed contact 113A and the third terminal 115C connected to the third fixed contact 113C becoming electrically connected to each other.

[0071] At this time, the operating member 120 is held in a slid state to its right end (a predetermined second operating position) by the magnetic attraction force generated between the magnet body 140 held by the operating member 120 and the yoke 150 on the right side (positive Y-axis side).

[0072] [Third Embodiment] Figures 11 and 12 are external perspective views of the input device 200 according to the third embodiment. Figure 13 is an external perspective view of the input device 200 according to the third embodiment (with the sealing member 270 omitted and the movable contact member 160 disassembled). Figure 14 is an external perspective view of the housing 210 included in the input device 200 according to the third embodiment. Figure 15 is a perspective view of the housing 210 included in the input device 200 according to the third embodiment.

[0073] (Overview of the input device 200) As shown in Figures 11 to 15, the input device 200 includes a housing 210 which has an octagonal shape when viewed from above. The top surface of the housing 210 is covered by a frame 230.

[0074] The upper side of the frame 230 is provided with a disc-shaped operating section 222 of the operating member 220. The input device 200 allows the operator to slide the operating section 222 of the operating member 220 in eight directions (forward, backward, left, right, diagonally forward right, diagonally forward left, diagonally backward right, and diagonally backward left).

[0075] (Configuration of the input device 200) As shown in Figures 11 to 15, the input device 200 comprises a housing 210, an operating member 220, a frame 230, a magnet body 240, eight yokes 250, a movable contact member 260, and a sealing member 270.

[0076] The housing 210 is a box-shaped component made of resin with a hollow structure. When viewed from above in plan, the housing 210 has an octagonal shape.

[0077] As shown in Figure 14, the housing 210 has a first housing space 211 formed in the upper surface, which is recessed downward from the center. The first housing space 211 is generally circular in shape when viewed from above, but each of the eight directions corresponding to the operating direction on the inner circumferential surface has a recessed shape 211A that is curved toward the outer diameter. The operating member 220 and the magnet body 240 are housed in the first housing space 211.

[0078] Furthermore, as shown in Figures 12 and 13, the housing 210 has a second housing space 212 that is recessed upward from the bottom surface. The second housing space 212 is an octagonal space when viewed from below in plan. The movable contact member 260 is housed in the second housing space 212. The second housing space 212 is located below the first housing space 211 (negative Z-axis side), but is isolated from the first housing space 211 by an isolation wall 212A provided between them.

[0079] As shown in Figure 13, the ceiling surface of the second containment space 212 (i.e., the isolation wall 212A) has a central fixed contact 213A in the center and six peripheral fixed contacts 213B in the periphery. Both the central fixed contact 213A and the peripheral fixed contacts 213B are vertical, planar contacts made of a conductive material.

[0080] Furthermore, six terminals 215 are provided protruding horizontally from the lower end of the side surface of the housing 210. Each of the six terminals 215 is integrally provided with each of the six peripheral fixed contacts 213B, that is, it is electrically connected to each of the six peripheral fixed contacts 213B.

[0081] The operating member 220 is a resin component that can be slid in eight directions by an operator. The operating member 220 is slidably mounted in eight directions inside the first housing space 211 of the housing 210. The detailed configuration of the operating member 220 is shown in Figure 16. As shown in Figure 16, the operating member 220 has a base portion 221, an operating portion 222, and a holding portion 223.

[0082] The base portion 221 is a horizontal, flat plate-shaped part located inside the first housing space 211 of the housing 210. A projection 221A is provided at the center of the upper surface of the base portion 221, projecting upward and penetrating the opening 230A of the frame 230. An operating part 222 is attached to the upper end of the projection 221A.

[0083] The operating unit 222 is positioned on the upper side of the frame 230 and can receive sliding operations from the operator. The operating unit 222 is attached to the upper end of the projection 221A of the base 221, allowing the base 221 to slide as a whole.

[0084] The holding portion 223 is provided projecting downward (in the negative Z-axis direction) from the central part of the lower surface of the base portion 221, and is the part that holds the magnet body 240. Specifically, the holding portion 223 has a cylindrical shape that extends in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction), and holds the cylindrical magnet body 240 inside the cylindrical tube.

[0085] The frame 230 is a flat, metal member that covers the upper surface of the housing 210. The frame 230 is formed by processing a metal plate using methods such as press working. When viewed from above, the frame 230 has an octagonal shape, which is the same shape as the housing 210. By covering the upper surface of the housing 210, the frame 230 closes the upper opening of the first housing space 211 of the housing 210. A circular opening 230A is formed in the center of the frame 230, through which the projection 221A of the operating member 220 is inserted.

[0086] Furthermore, hooks 231 are provided hanging down from each of the four sides of the frame 230, both front, back, left, and right. Each hook 231 has a rectangular opening 231A. Each hook 231 is secured by fitting a claw portion 219, provided on the side of the housing 210, into the opening 231A. In this way, the frame 230 is fixed to the housing 210, covering the upper surface of the housing 210.

[0087] The magnet body 240 is held inside the first housing space 211 of the housing 210 by the holding portion 223 of the operating member 220. The magnet body 240 has a cylindrical shape extending in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction). The magnet body 240 is a so-called permanent magnet, with the upper half (positive Z-axis side) magnetized to one of the poles, the north pole and the south pole, and the lower half (negative Z-axis side) magnetized to the other pole. The magnet body 240 slides in eight directions together with the operating member 220 by being held by the holding portion 223 of the operating member 220.

[0088] Each of the eight yokes 250 is positioned on the outer diameter side of the first housing space 211 in the housing 210, in each of the eight directions corresponding to the operating direction. That is, each of the eight yokes 250 is positioned on the outer diameter side of each of the eight recesses 211A of the first housing space 211. Each yoke 250 is an example of a "magnetic member," made of a magnetic material, and has a thin rectangular parallelepiped shape in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction). The lower surface of each yoke 250 faces one of the peripheral fixed contacts 213B.

[0089] The movable contact member 260 is a horizontal, flat plate-shaped member. The movable contact member 260 is positioned horizontally inside the second housing space 212 of the housing 210. The movable contact member 260 is formed using a conductive magnetic material. When viewed from below in a plan view, the movable contact member 260 has an octagonal shape that is smaller than the second housing space 212.

[0090] The movable contact member 260 has a pivot point 261 that is convex upward (in the positive Z-axis direction) at the center of its upper surface. The pivot point 261 is in constant contact with the central fixed contact point 213A provided inside the second housing space 212 and serves as the pivot center of the movable contact member 260.

[0091] Furthermore, the movable contact member 260 has upwardly convex peripheral movable contacts 262 at each of the eight corners on its upper surface. Each peripheral movable contact 262 is positioned opposite one of the peripheral fixed contacts 213B located inside the second housing space 212, and can move toward and away from the peripheral fixed contact 213B as the movable contact member 260 swings.

[0092] The sealing member 270 is a sheet-like member that seals the second housing space 212 of the housing 210. The sealing member 270 is formed using an elastic material (for example, rubber, silicone, etc.). When viewed from below (negative Z-axis direction) in plan view, the sealing member 270 has an octagonal shape that is larger than the second housing space 212. The sealing member 270 covers the second housing space 212 and is bonded to the lower surface of the housing 210 at its outer peripheral portion outside the second housing space 212 by any bonding method (for example, laser welding, etc.).

[0093] (Operation of the input device 200) Next, the operation of the input device 200 according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 16. Figure 16 is a cross-sectional view of the input device 200 according to the third embodiment (in the state where the operating member 220 has moved).

[0094] In Figure 16, the operation of the input device 200 is illustrated when the operating part 222 of the operating member 220 is slid to the left (negative Y-axis direction) out of the eight directions. However, the input device 200 operates similarly when slid in other directions.

[0095] As shown in Figure 16, when the operator slides the operating member 220 to the left (negative Y-axis direction), the magnet body 240 held by the operating member 220 slides to the left (negative Y-axis direction) together with the operating member 220, and the magnet body 240 comes into close proximity to the yoke 250 on the left side (negative Y-axis side).

[0096] As a result, a magnetic circuit is formed between the magnet body 240 and the movable contact member 260 via the left (negative Y-axis) yoke 250 of the eight yokes 150 and the left (negative Y-axis) peripheral fixed contact 213B. The magnetic force of the magnet body 240 via this magnetic circuit causes the movable contact member 260 to swing around the pivot point 261, and the left (negative Y-axis) peripheral movable contact 262 of the movable contact member 260 is attracted to the left (negative Y-axis) peripheral fixed contact 213B.

[0097] As a result, the central fixed contact 213A and the peripheral fixed contact 213B on the left side (negative Y-axis side) become electrically connected via the movable contact member 260. In other words, the input device 200 can detect that the operating member 220 has slid to the left (negative Y-axis direction) because the terminal 215 connected to the central fixed contact 213A and the terminal 215 connected to the peripheral fixed contact 213B are electrically connected to each other.

[0098] At this time, the operating member 220 is stably maintained in a leftward (negative Y-axis direction) sliding state due to the magnetic attraction force generated between the magnet body 240 held by the operating member 220 and the yoke 250 on the left side (negative Y-axis side).

[0099] Furthermore, at this time, a portion of the outer surface of the operating member 220 fits into the left-side (negative Y-axis) recess 211A formed on the inner surface of the first housing space 211, thereby further stably maintaining the leftward (negative Y-axis direction) sliding state.

[0100] As described above, in the input device 200 according to the third embodiment, the operating member 220 is movable in eight operating directions, and when the operating member 220 moves in any one of the operating directions, the magnetic body 240 moves in that operating direction, and the movable contact member 260 swings in that operating direction about a pivot point 261 due to the magnetic force of the magnetic body 240, so that the peripheral movable contact 262 corresponding to that operating direction comes into contact with the peripheral fixed contact 213B corresponding to that operating direction.

[0101] As a result, the input device 200 according to the third embodiment can detect movement of the operating member 220 in any one of the operating directions. Furthermore, the input device 200 according to the third embodiment can stably maintain the state in which the peripheral movable contact 262 is in contact with the peripheral fixed contact 213B by magnetic attraction force due to the magnetic force of the magnet body 240.

[0102] Furthermore, in the input device 200 according to the third embodiment, the magnetic body 240 is held by the operating member 220 and moves together with the operating member 220.

[0103] As a result, the input device 200 according to the third embodiment can move the magnet body 240 in the same direction as the operating member 220 with a relatively simple configuration.

[0104] Furthermore, the input device 200 according to the third embodiment has a housing 210 which includes a first housing space 211 in which an operating member 220 and a magnet body 240 are provided, a second housing space 212 in which a central fixed contact 213A, a plurality of peripheral fixed contacts 213B and a movable contact member 260 are provided, and an isolation wall 212A that separates the first housing space 211 and the second housing space 212.

[0105] Furthermore, the input device 200 according to the third embodiment further includes a sealing member 270 that seals the opening of the second accommodation space 212 that is open to the outside.

[0106] As a result, the input device 200 according to the third embodiment can completely seal the second housing space 212 where each movable contact and each fixed contact is provided, thereby preventing moisture, foreign matter, etc. from entering the second housing space 212 from the outside and from the first housing space 211. Therefore, the input device 200 according to the third embodiment can suppress corrosion and foreign matter jamming of each movable contact and each fixed contact, and can suppress poor contact of each movable contact and each fixed contact.

[0107] Furthermore, in the input device 200 according to the third embodiment, when the operating member 220 slides in either of the operating directions, the magnetic attraction force generated between the magnet body 240 and the yoke 250 allows the sliding of the operating member 220 to be rapidly accelerated and rapidly stopped. As a result, the input device 200 according to the third embodiment can provide the operator with a click sensation when the operating member 220 slides in either of the operating directions.

[0108] Furthermore, in the input device 200 according to the third embodiment, when the operating member 220 starts sliding in the opposite direction from one of the operating directions, the force attempting to break the magnetic attraction force generated between the magnet body 240 and the yoke 250 causes the operating load of the operating member 220 to increase rapidly, and then the operating load of the operating member 220 to decrease rapidly. As a result, the input device 200 according to the third embodiment can provide the operator with a click sensation when the operating member 220 starts sliding in the opposite direction from one of the operating directions.

[0109] [Fourth Embodiment] Figure 17 is a cross-sectional view of the input device 200-2 according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 18 is a cross-sectional view of the input device 200-2 according to the fourth embodiment (with the operating member 220 moved).

[0110] The input device 200-2 according to the fourth embodiment is a first modification of the input device 200 according to the third embodiment, and differs from the input device 200 according to the third embodiment in that it does not have a plurality of yokes 250 and has an annular spring 280.

[0111] As shown in Figures 17 and 18, the annular spring 280 is an elastic member that has an annular shape when viewed from above (positive Z-axis direction), and is provided inside the first housing space 211 of the housing 210 so as to surround the holding portion 223 of the operating member 220.

[0112] In the input device 200-2, as shown in Figure 18, when the operator slides the operating member 220 to the left (negative Y-axis direction), the magnet body 240 held by the operating member 220 slides to the left (negative Y-axis direction) together with the operating member 220, and the magnet body 240 comes into close proximity with the peripheral fixed contact 213B on the left side (negative Y-axis side).

[0113] As a result, a magnetic circuit is formed between the magnet body 240 and the movable contact member 260 via the left side (negative Y-axis side) peripheral fixed contact 213B. The magnetic force of the magnet body 240 via this magnetic circuit causes the movable contact member 260 to swing around the pivot point 261, and the left side (negative Y-axis side) peripheral movable contact 262 of the movable contact member 260 is attracted to the left side (negative Y-axis side) peripheral fixed contact 213B.

[0114] As a result, the central fixed contact 213A and the peripheral fixed contact 213B on the left side (negative Y-axis side) become electrically connected via the movable contact member 260. In other words, the input device 200-2 can detect that the operating member 220 has slid to the left (negative Y-axis direction) because the terminal 215 connected to the central fixed contact 213A and the terminal 215 connected to the peripheral fixed contact 213B are electrically connected to each other.

[0115] At this time, as shown in Figure 18, the annular spring 280 is elastically deformed so as to be pushed outwards to the left (negative Y-axis direction) by the holding portion 223 of the operating member 220, thereby generating an elastic force. For this reason, in the input device 200-2, when the operating force applied to the operating member 220 by the operator is released from a state where the operating member 220 has slid to the left (negative Y-axis direction), the elastic force of the annular spring 280 causes the operating member 220 to return to its initial position.

[0116] In Figure 18, the operation of the input device 200-2 is illustrated when the operating part 222 of the operating member 220 is slid to the left (negative Y-axis direction) out of the eight directions. However, the input device 200-2 operates similarly when slid in other directions.

[0117] [Fifth Embodiment] Figure 19 is a cross-sectional view of the input device 200-3 according to the fifth embodiment. Figure 20 is a cross-sectional view of the input device 200-3 according to the fifth embodiment.

[0118] The input device 200-3 according to the fifth embodiment is a second modified example of the input device 200 according to the third embodiment, and differs from the input device 200 according to the third embodiment in that it includes an operating member 220-2 instead of an operating member 220.

[0119] The operating member 220-2 is rotatably mounted inside the first housing space 211 of the housing 210, with a central axis 220A extending in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) as the center of rotation.

[0120] As shown in Figure 20, the operating member 220-2 has a cylindrical holding portion 223 for holding the magnet body 240, which protrudes downward (in the negative Z-axis direction) from an eccentric position on the lower surface of the base portion 221.

[0121] As the operator rotates the operating part 222, the operating member 220-2 rotates around the central axis 220A, causing the holding part 223 to rotate along the circumference of the central axis 220A and sequentially fit into the eight recesses 211A formed on the inner surface of the first housing space 211, thereby sequentially switching to eight rotational operating positions provided at equal angular intervals (i.e., 45° intervals).

[0122] The holding portion 223 is provided so as to be radially movable relative to the base portion 221, so as to be able to follow the uneven shape of the inner circumferential surface of the first housing space 211 as it rotates.

[0123] Here, in the input device 200-3 according to the fifth embodiment, the fact that the holding portion 223 is sequentially fitted into the eight recesses 211A by the rotational operation of the operating member 220-2 is equivalent to sequentially sliding the operating member 220 in the eight operating directions in the input device 200 according to the third embodiment.

[0124] Therefore, for example, as shown in Figure 20, in the input device 200-3 according to the fifth embodiment, when the holding portion 223 is rotated to a position to the left (negative Y-axis direction) with respect to the central axis 220A by the rotational operation of the operating member 220-2, the movable contact member 260 swings around the pivot point 261 by the magnetic force of the magnet body 240, similar to when the operating member 220 is slid to the left (negative Y-axis direction) in the input device 200 according to the third embodiment, and the peripheral movable contact 262 on the left side (negative Y-axis side) of the movable contact member 260 is attracted to the peripheral fixed contact 213B on the left side (negative Y-axis side).

[0125] [Sixth Embodiment] (Overview of Input Device 100) Figures 21 and 22 are external perspective views of the input device 300 according to the sixth embodiment. The input device 300 shown in Figure 221 is a small input device that is mounted on various electronic devices. As shown in Figures 221 and 22, the input device 300 has a roughly rectangular parallelepiped shape with its longitudinal direction being the vertical direction (Z-axis direction).

[0126] The input device 300 comprises a housing 310 having a generally rectangular parallelepiped shape. The top, front, rear, left, and right sides of the housing 310 are covered by a frame 330.

[0127] A rectangular prism-shaped operating section 322 of the operating member 320 protrudes upward (in the positive Z-axis direction) from a rectangular opening 330A formed on the upper surface of the frame 330. The input device 300 is a so-called push switch that allows the operator to press the operating section 322 of the operating member 320.

[0128] When the operator does not press the operating part 322 of the operating member 320, the input device 300 enters a switched-off state, in which the first terminal 315A and the second terminal 315B, which protrude from the lower surface of the housing 310, become non-conductive.

[0129] When the operator presses the operating part 322 of the operating member 320, the input device 300 switches on, causing the first terminal 315A and the second terminal 315B, which are provided protruding from the lower surface of the housing 310, to become electrically conductive.

[0130] (Configuration of the input device 300) Figures 23 and 24 are perspective views of the input device 300 according to the sixth embodiment (with the frame 330 removed).

[0131] As shown in Figures 23 and 24, the input device 300 comprises a housing 310, an operating member 320, a frame 330, a magnet body 340, a pair of upper and lower yokes 350, a movable contact member 360, a sealing member 370, and a coil spring 380.

[0132] The housing 310 has a first housing space 311 on the front side (positive X-axis side) and a second housing space 312 on the rear side (negative X-axis side). The first housing space 311 houses the operating member 320, the magnet body 340, and a pair of upper and lower yokes 350. The second housing space 312 houses the movable contact member 360. A separation wall 312A is provided between the first housing space 311 and the second housing space 312.

[0133] The back bottom surface of the second containment space 312 (i.e., the isolation wall 312A) has a first fixed contact 313A in the center in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction), a second fixed contact 313B at the lower end, and a third fixed contact 313C at the upper end. The first fixed contact 313A, the second fixed contact 313B, and the third fixed contact 313C are all vertical, planar contacts made of a conductive material.

[0134] Furthermore, a rectangular opening 310A is formed in the upper wall of the housing 310, which, when viewed from above (in the positive Z-axis direction), allows the operating portion 322 of the operating member 320 to protrude upward (in the positive Z-axis direction).

[0135] Furthermore, the first terminal 315A, the second terminal 315B, and the third terminal 315C are provided protruding downward from the rear portion (the negative X-axis side) of the lower surface of the housing 310 (see Figure 22). The first terminal 315A is provided integrally with the first fixed contact 313A, that is, it is electrically connected to the first fixed contact 313A. The second terminal 315B is provided integrally with the second fixed contact 313B, that is, it is electrically connected to the second fixed contact 313B. The third terminal 315C is provided integrally with the third fixed contact 313C, that is, it is electrically connected to the third fixed contact 313C.

[0136] The operating member 320 is a resin member that is pressed downward (in the negative Z-axis direction) by the operator. The operating member 320 is slidably mounted in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) inside the first housing space 311 of the housing 310. The operating member 320 has a base portion 321, an operating portion 322 that receives the pressing operation by the operator, and a holding portion 323 that holds the magnet body 340.

[0137] The frame 330 is a metal component that covers the top, front, rear, left, and right sides of the housing 310. The frame 330 is formed by processing a metal plate using methods such as press working. The frame 330 covers the front of the housing 310 with its horizontal portion, thereby closing the front opening of the first housing space 311 of the housing 310. Rectangular openings 331 are formed on each of the left and right sides (vertical portions) of the frame 330. Claws 319 provided on both the left and right sides of the housing 310 are fitted into each opening 331. In this way, the frame 330 is fixed to the housing 310 while covering it.

[0138] The magnet body 340 is held inside the first housing space 311 of the housing 310 by the holding portion 323 of the operating member 320. The magnet body 340 has a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The magnet body 340 is a so-called permanent magnet, with the upper half (positive Z-axis side) magnetized to one of the poles, the north pole and the south pole, and the lower half (negative Z-axis side) magnetized to the other pole. Because the magnet body 340 is held by the holding portion 323 of the operating member 320, it slides vertically (in the Z-axis direction) together with the operating member 320.

[0139] The upper and lower yokes 350 are located inside the first housing space 311 of the housing 310, on the upper (positive Z-axis) and lower (negative Z-axis) sides of the magnet body 340, which is held by the holding portion 323 of the operating member 320. Each yoke 350 is an example of a "magnetic member," made of a magnetic material, and has a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The upper (positive Z-axis) yoke 350 is positioned opposite the upper surface of the magnet body 340. The lower (negative Z-axis) yoke 350 is positioned opposite the lower surface of the magnet body 340.

[0140] The movable contact member 360 is a plate-shaped member that extends in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction). The movable contact member 360 is positioned vertically inside the second housing space 312 of the housing 310. The movable contact member 360 is formed using a conductive magnetic material.

[0141] The movable contact member 360 has a pivot point 361 that is convex forward (positive X-axis direction) at its center in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction). The pivot point 361 is in constant contact with the first fixed contact point 313A provided inside the second housing space 312 and serves as the pivot center of the movable contact member 360.

[0142] Furthermore, the movable contact member 360 has a first movable contact 362 at its lower end that is convex forward (in the positive X-axis direction). The first movable contact 362 is positioned opposite the second fixed contact 313B, which is located inside the second housing space 312, and can move toward and away from the second fixed contact 313B as the movable contact member 360 swings.

[0143] Furthermore, the movable contact member 360 has a second movable contact 363 at its upper end that is convex forward (in the positive X-axis direction). The second movable contact 363 is positioned opposite a third fixed contact 313C provided inside the second housing space 312, and can move toward and away from the third fixed contact 313C as the movable contact member 360 swings.

[0144] The sealing member 370 is a sheet-like member that seals the second housing space 312 of the housing 310. The sealing member 370 is formed using an elastic material (for example, rubber, silicone, etc.). When viewed from the rear (negative X-axis direction) in plan view, the sealing member 370 has a rectangular shape that is larger than the second housing space 312. With the sealing member 370 covering the second housing space 312, the outer peripheral portion outside the second housing space 312 is bonded to the rear side (negative X-axis side) of the housing 310 by any bonding method (for example, laser welding, etc.).

[0145] The coil spring 380 is provided so as to be expandable and contractible in the vertical direction (Z-axis direction) inside the first housing space 311 of the housing 310 (right front corner). The upper end of the coil spring 380 abuts against the base 321 of the operating member 320, and the lower end of the coil spring 380 abuts against the bottom surface of the first housing space 311. As a result, when the operating member 320 is pressed down, the coil spring 380 is compressed by the operating member 320, generating an elastic force. When the pressing operation of the operating member 320 is released, this elastic force biases the operating member 320 upward, thereby returning it to its initial position.

[0146] (Operation of Input Device 300) Next, the operation of the input device 300 according to the sixth embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 23 to 25. Figure 25 is a perspective view of the input device 300 (switch-on state) according to the sixth embodiment.

[0147] <Switch Off State> As shown in Figures 23 and 24, when the operator is not pressing the operating member 320 downward (negative Z-axis direction), the operating member 220 is in its initial position, which is the upper end, due to the biasing force from the coil spring 380. At this time, the magnet body 340 held by the operating member 320 is located at the upper end together with the operating member 320, and the upper surface of the magnet body 340 is close to the upper surface of the yoke 350 on the upper side (positive Z-axis side).

[0148] As a result, a magnetic circuit is formed between the magnet body 340 and the movable contact member 360 via the upper (positive Z-axis) yoke 350. Through this magnetic circuit, the magnetic force of the magnet body 340 is transmitted to the rear surface of the upper (positive Z-axis) yoke 350, and the upper (positive Z-axis) portion of the movable contact member 360, which faces the rear surface of the upper (positive Z-axis) yoke 350, is attracted to the upper (positive Z-axis) yoke 350.

[0149] Therefore, the movable contact member 360 swings around the pivot point 361 such that its upper portion (positive Z-axis side) moves forward (positive X-axis direction), and the second movable contact 363 provided at the upper end of the movable contact member 360 comes into contact with the third fixed contact 313C.

[0150] Conversely, the first movable contact 362, which is provided at the lower end of the movable contact member 360, is separated from the second fixed contact 313B.

[0151] As a result, the first fixed contact 313A and the second fixed contact 313B become non-conductive. In other words, the input device 300 becomes non-conductive, with the first terminal 315A connected to the first fixed contact 313A and the second terminal 315B connected to the second fixed contact 313B becoming non-conductive.

[0152] At this time, the operating member 320 is held in a slid state up to its upper end (a predetermined second operating position) by the magnetic attraction force generated between the magnet body 340 held by the operating member 320 and the upper (positive Z-axis) yoke 350, and the biasing force from the coil spring 380.

[0153] <Switch-on state> On the other hand, as shown in Figure 25, when the operator pushes the operating member 320 downward (in the negative Z-axis direction) and the operating member 320 slides to its lower end (a predetermined first operating position), the magnet body 340 held by the operating member 320 slides together with the operating member 320 to its lower end, and the lower surface of the magnet body 340 comes into close proximity to the upper surface of the yoke 350 on the lower side (negative Z-axis side).

[0154] As a result, a magnetic circuit is formed between the magnet body 340 and the movable contact member 360 via the lower (negative Z-axis) yoke 350. Through this magnetic circuit, the magnetic force of the magnet body 340 is transmitted to the rear surface of the lower (negative Z-axis) yoke 350, and the lower (negative Z-axis) portion of the movable contact member 360, which faces the rear surface of the lower (negative Z-axis) yoke 350, is attracted to the lower (negative Z-axis) yoke 350.

[0155] Therefore, the movable contact member 360 swings around the pivot point 361 such that its lower portion (negative Z-axis direction) moves forward (positive X-axis direction), and the first movable contact 362, which is provided at the lower end of the movable contact member 360, comes into contact with the second fixed contact 313B.

[0156] As a result, the first fixed contact 313A and the second fixed contact 313B become electrically connected via the movable contact member 360. That is, the input device 300 becomes electrically connected to each other, with the first terminal 315A connected to the first fixed contact 313A and the second terminal 315B connected to the second fixed contact 313B.

[0157] <Returning to the Switch-Off State> When the operator releases the operating member 320, the operating member 320 slides upward (in the positive Z-axis direction) due to the biasing force from the coil spring 380 and returns to its initial position, which is the upper end, as shown in Figures 23 and 24. As a result, the input device 300 returns to the switch-off state shown in Figures 23 and 24.

[0158] When the operator presses the operating member 320, a magnetic attraction force is generated between the magnet body 340, which is held by the operating member 320, and the lower (negative Y-axis) yoke 350. However, when the operator presses the operating member 320, the biasing force from the coil spring 380 exceeds the magnetic attraction force between the magnet body 340 and the lower (negative Y-axis) yoke 350, so the operating member 320 can slide upward (positive Z-axis direction).

[0159] As described above, in the input device 300 according to the sixth embodiment, when the magnet body 340 moves in a first direction (downward) in conjunction with the movement of the operating member 320 to a predetermined first operating position, the movable contact member 360 swings about the pivot point 361 due to the magnetic force of the magnet body 340, causing the first movable contact 362 to contact the second fixed contact 313B.

[0160] As a result, the input device 300 according to the sixth embodiment can switch between an off state and an on state by causing the movable contact member 360 to swing due to the magnetic force of the magnet body 340.

[0161] Furthermore, in the input device 300 according to the sixth embodiment, the magnetic body 340 is held by the operating member 320 and moves together with the operating member 320.

[0162] As a result, the input device 300 according to the sixth embodiment can move the magnet body 340 in the same direction as the operating member 320 with a relatively simple configuration.

[0163] Furthermore, the input device 300 according to the sixth embodiment has a housing 310 which includes a first housing space 311 in which an operating member 320, a magnet body 340, and a yoke 350 are provided, a second housing space 312 in which a first fixed contact 313A, a second fixed contact 313B, a third fixed contact 313C, and a movable contact member 360 are provided, and an isolation wall 312A that separates the first housing space 311 and the second housing space 312.

[0164] Furthermore, the input device 300 according to the sixth embodiment further includes a sealing member 370 that seals the opening of the second accommodation space 312 that is open to the outside.

[0165] As a result, the input device 300 according to the sixth embodiment can completely seal the second housing space 312 where each movable contact and each fixed contact is provided, thereby preventing moisture, foreign matter, etc. from entering the second housing space 312 from the outside and from the first housing space 311. Therefore, the input device 300 according to the sixth embodiment can suppress corrosion and foreign matter jamming of each movable contact and each fixed contact, and can suppress poor contact of each movable contact and each fixed contact.

[0166] Furthermore, in the input device 300 according to the sixth embodiment, when the operating member 320 slides to the lower end and upper end, the magnetic attraction force generated between the magnet body 340 and the yoke 350 allows the sliding of the operating member 320 to be rapidly accelerated and rapidly stopped. As a result, the input device 300 according to the sixth embodiment can provide the operator with a click sensation when the operating member 320 slides to the upper end and lower end.

[0167] Furthermore, in the input device 300 according to the sixth embodiment, when the operating member 320 starts sliding in opposite directions from its lower and upper ends, the force attempting to break the magnetic attraction force generated between the magnet body 340 and the yoke 350 causes the operating load of the operating member 320 to increase rapidly, and then the operating load of the operating member 320 to decrease rapidly. As a result, the input device 300 according to the sixth embodiment can provide the operator with a click sensation when the operating member 320 starts sliding in opposite directions from its lower and upper ends.

[0168] Although one embodiment of the present invention has been described in detail above, the present invention is not limited to these embodiments, and various modifications or changes are possible within the scope of the gist of the present invention as described in the claims.

[0169] This international application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2024-172775, filed on 1 October 2024, and the entire contents of said application are incorporated herein by reference.

[0170] 100, 100-2, 200, 200-2, 200-3, 300 Input device 110, 210, 310 Housing 110A, 310A Opening 111, 211, 311 First housing space 211A Recess 112, 212, 312 Second housing space 112A, 212A, 312A Isolation wall 113A, 313A First fixed contact 213A Central fixed contact 113B, 313B Second fixed contact 213B Peripheral fixed contact 113C, 313C Third fixed contact 115A, 315A First terminal 115B, 315B Second terminal 115C, 315C Third terminal 215 Terminal 119, 219, 319 Claw portion 120, 220, 220-2, 320 Operating member 121, 221, 321 Base 221A Projection 122, 222, 322 Operating part 123, 223, 323 Holding part 130, 230, 330 Frame 230A, 330A Opening 131 Opening 231 Hook 231A, 331 Opening 140, 240, 340 Magnet body 150, 250, 350 Yoke (magnetic member) 151 Central yoke (central magnetic member) 160, 260, 360 Movable contact member 161, 261, 361 Pivot point 162, 362 First movable contact 262 Peripheral movable contact 163, 363 Second movable contact 170, 270, 370 Seal members 280 Annular springs 380 Coil springs

Claims

1. An input device comprising: a housing; an operating member provided within the housing and movable to a plurality of operating positions; a movable contact member provided within the housing and made of a magnetic material; a first fixed contact and a second fixed contact provided within the housing facing the movable contact member; and a magnet provided within the housing so as to move in conjunction with the movement of the operating member, wherein the movable contact member has a pivot point that is always in contact with the first fixed contact and a first movable contact facing the second fixed contact, and the movable contact member is characterized in that, when the magnet moves in conjunction with the movement of the operating member to a predetermined operating position, the first movable contact comes into contact with the second fixed contact by the oscillating of the magnet about the pivot point due to the magnetic force of the magnet.

2. The input device according to claim 1, further comprising a third fixed contact provided within the housing opposite to the movable contact member, wherein the movable contact member further comprises a second movable contact opposite to the third fixed contact, and the movable contact member is such that when the magnet body moves in a first direction as the operating member moves to a predetermined first operating position, the first movable contact contacts the second fixed contact by swinging about the pivot point due to the magnetic force of the magnet body, and when the magnet body moves in a second direction opposite to the first direction as the operating member moves to a predetermined second operating position, the second movable contact contacts the third fixed contact by swinging about the pivot point due to the magnetic force of the magnet body.

3. The input device according to claim 2, characterized in that the magnetic body is held by the operating member and moves together with the operating member.

4. The input device according to claim 3, characterized in that the operating member is held in the predetermined first operating position and the predetermined second operating position by the magnetic attraction force between the magnet body and the movable contact member.

5. The input device according to claim 4, further comprising a magnetic member provided within the housing, made of a magnetic material, which transmits the magnetic force of the magnet to the movable contact member, wherein the movable contact member swings about the pivot point by the magnetic force transmitted via the magnetic member.

6. The input device according to claim 5, characterized in that the housing has a first housing space in which the operating member, the magnet body, and the magnetic member are provided, a second housing space in which the first fixed contact, the second fixed contact, the third fixed contact, and the movable contact member are provided, and a separation wall separating the first housing space and the second housing space.

7. The input device according to claim 6, further comprising a sealing member for sealing the opening of the second containment space that is open to the outside.

8. The input device according to claim 5, further comprising a central magnetic member provided in the center of the housing, made of a magnetic material, which transmits the magnetic force of the magnet to the movable contact member, wherein the movable contact member maintains a parallel state without oscillation by the fulcrum being attracted by the magnetic force transmitted via the central magnetic member.

9. An input device comprising: a housing; an operating member provided within the housing and movable in a plurality of operating directions from an initial position; a movable contact member provided within the housing and made of a magnetic material; a central fixed contact and a plurality of peripheral fixed contacts provided within the housing opposite to the movable contact member; and a magnet provided within the housing so as to move in conjunction with the movement of the operating member, wherein the movable contact member has a pivot point that is always in contact with the central fixed contact and a plurality of peripheral movable contacts that are opposite to the plurality of peripheral fixed contacts, and the movable contact member swings about the pivot point due to the magnetic force of the magnet when the magnet moves in conjunction with the movement of the operating member in the operating direction, so that the peripheral movable contact corresponding to the operating direction contacts the peripheral fixed contact corresponding to the operating direction.

10. The input device according to claim 9, further comprising a plurality of magnetic members provided within the housing in each of the plurality of operating directions with respect to the initial position, each magnetic member being made of a magnetic material and transmitting the magnetic force of the magnetic material to the movable contact member, wherein the movable contact member swings about the pivot point by the magnetic force transmitted via the magnetic members.

11. The input device according to claim 9, further comprising an annular spring arranged to surround a portion of the operating member, which returns the operating member to its initial position by the elastic force generated when the operating member moves.

12. An input device comprising: a housing; an operating member provided within the housing and rotatable to a plurality of rotational operating positions; a movable contact member provided within the housing and made of a magnetic material; a central fixed contact and a plurality of peripheral fixed contacts provided within the housing opposite to the movable contact member; and a magnet provided within the housing so as to be rotatable in conjunction with the rotational movement of the operating member, wherein the movable contact member has a pivot point that is always in contact with the central fixed contact and a plurality of peripheral movable contacts that are opposite to the plurality of peripheral fixed contacts, and the movable contact member swings about the pivot point due to the magnetic force of the magnet when the magnet rotates in conjunction with the rotational movement of the operating member to the rotational operating position, so that the peripheral movable contact corresponding to the rotational operating position contacts the peripheral fixed contact corresponding to the rotational operating position.

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